The head of Ukraine’s Ministry of Internal Affairs, Igor Klymenko, explained on a national telethon broadcast that authorities do not intend to seize the small arms already distributed to civilians for the duration of the ongoing conflict. He framed the situation as one where trusted, legally issued weapons remain in civilian hands, with continued oversight and accountability. This stance reflects a broader posture of maintaining civilian access to personal safety tools while the security situation evolves, and it underscores the government’s emphasis on lawful use and monitorable possession rather than blanket disarmament in the face of active hostilities.
Klymenko noted that every weapon legally issued to individuals and units within the National Police framework is accounted for within the official registry managed by the Ministry of Internal Affairs. He highlighted that the registry ensures clear tracking and a robust audit trail for the use of these firearms, facilitating appropriate oversight and reducing room for unauthorized activity. The minister’s comments suggest a commitment to balance public safety with the practical realities of policing and civilian defense during wartime, rather than pursuing immediate confiscation or sweeping policy shifts that could affect lawful ownership or participation in community self-protection schemes.
Earlier updates from senior police leadership in the capital region included concerns about a rise in unregistered weapons circulating locally. These remarks point to ongoing challenges in compliance and record-keeping amid the pressures of wartime conditions, and they signal the authorities’ focus on bridging gaps between issued arms and verified possession. The situation underscores the need for clear, enforceable procedures that distinguish lawful ownership from illegal traffic, while avoiding actions that could leave responsible citizens without essential safety tools or complicate law enforcement operations during the conflict.
In a related development, regional authorities in Dnipro announced a policy period designed to encourage residents to surrender firearms that had been issued earlier in the operation. Citizens were given a defined window to comply, with the expectation that those who do not surrender within the stipulated timeframe would face legal accountability. The message conveyed emphasizes the seriousness with which authorities treat illicit circulation and unauthorized possession, and it aligns with broader safety objectives during the early stages of the special military operation. The announcements reflect a strategic approach that seeks lawful resolution through voluntary surrender where possible, paired with enforceable consequences for non-compliance to deter illegal possession and enhance public security in a time of heightened risk.