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The idea of soliciting money from restaurant and bar visitors to support participants in special operations has the potential to heighten social tension, according to Yaroslav Nilov, a State Duma Deputy and the Chairman of the Committee on Labor, Social Policy and Veterans Affairs, affiliated with the Public News Service.

Nilov argued that any extra levy on the public could trigger nervous reactions across society. He pointed out that many citizens already contribute in various ways to assist those involved in the special operation, with hospitality venues and regional authorities stepping in by purchasing food, supplying essential gear, and providing uniforms. In the context of substantial existing budget allocations, long-standing staffing commitments, and ongoing voluntary aid, he warned that introducing additional tax changes might intensify social expenditures and lead to broader unease among the populace. He stressed that such measures are highly sensitive and should be approached with caution.

Earlier discussions on this topic included proposals from Communist Party deputies Mikhail Matveev and Vyacheslav Markhaev. They put forward a bill for a “restaurant fee” intended to organize fundraising among visitors to dining establishments, bars, and nightclubs to support those participating in the special operation. Nilov’s remarks highlight a broader tension between perceived philanthropy and the fiscal duties of the state, and they underscore the complexity of balancing voluntary aid with potential policy shifts. The debate reflects concerns about how targeted contributions could affect social cohesion and public sentiment in the country, especially when combined with existing government programs and fiscal commitments. (Source attribution: Public News Service)