Deputies from the Fair Russia party, led by Sergei Mironov, are preparing to submit a bill to the State Duma. The proposal would bar individuals who have held Russian citizenship for less than a decade from buying hunting rifles and other firearms. The plan was reported by RIA Novosti and discussed in party meetings and briefings.
The explanatory note accompanying the draft states that civilians with Russian citizenship should not be allowed to purchase firearms that have limited destruction, hunting weapons, or self defense arms for a period shorter than ten years. The text argues that this time frame would reduce the risk of impulsive or ill-informed firearm purchases by new citizens who may be unfamiliar with Russian gun laws and safety practices.
Alongside the core proposal, the bill would amend the law On Weapons. The proposed change would permit foreign nationals to buy gas cartridges, stun guns, and air guns only after five years from the date they acquire Russian citizenship. Proponents say this would create a longer lead time for evaluating risks and ensuring proper licensing and storage requirements are understood by new residents.
Mironov highlighted ongoing concerns about crime reports that reference incidents involving migrants. He pointed to a string of daily cases in which fights, thefts, and more serious offenses are recorded, arguing that stricter controls on arms sales to newcomers could help prevent hostile or reckless behavior. He stressed that without stronger rules, the situation could deteriorate in the eyes of many citizens who are watching crime trends closely.
In interviews and public remarks, the party leader noted that a number of CIS citizens obtain Russian citizenship with limited language proficiency and then quickly pursue permission to own weapons. He suggested that faster access to weapons for some newcomers, coupled with insufficient language abilities, could increase the risk of miscommunication and unsafe handling. The aim, in his view, is to ensure that citizenship grants come with a clear, measured path to responsible gun ownership that aligns with public safety priorities.
Observers in Moscow say the initiative reflects a broader debate about immigration, integration, and public safety that also surfaces in other policy domains. Critics warn that blanket restrictions might unfairly affect lawful residents and those who have properly completed naturalization processes. Supporters argue that careful screening and phased access to firearms help protect communities while the country continues to respond to changing demographics. The discussion underscores how weapon policy intersects with citizenship rules, law enforcement reporting, and social cohesion. The bill is still in its early stages, and analysts note that it will face questions about enforcement, practical effects, and potential unintended consequences for residents who rely on hunting or sport shooting for recreation and income.
This development arrives amid other political proposals that touch on immigration and education, including discussions about the composition of schools and how immigrant children are integrated into the education system. Observers emphasize that any changes are likely to provoke debate about balancing security concerns with the rights of new residents and the practical needs of families who contribute to society. The debate also highlights how policy shifts in one area can ripple into other sectors, from licensing to community relations and beyond. The proposed measures, if enacted, would represent a notable shift in how firearm access is managed for new citizens, with potential effects on law enforcement, firearms retailers, and the wider public. The process will depend on legislative negotiations, public input, and the alignment of these ideas with existing safety frameworks.
Throughout the discussion, the focus remains on safety, orderly integration, and the realities of living in a rapidly changing society. Stakeholders on all sides call for careful examination of the data, clear compliance requirements, and robust accountability mechanisms. The outcome will influence not only gun owners but communities, educators, police, and border and citizenship administration, as they work together to navigate these complex policy questions.”