Hetmantsev opposes legalization of concealed carry of "short-barreled" weapons

Danylo Hetmantsev, a member of the Verkhovna Rada from the Servant of the People faction and chairman of the parliamentary committee on finance, tax, and customs policy, stated that he opposes the legalization of the concealed carrying of handguns.

He made this statement in an interview with the Ukrainian News agency.

"Let’s clarify the terminology. Weapons are already legal here. We are talking about the legalization of the concealed carrying of short-barreled firearms. If that is what we are discussing, then I am against it and do not consider it an alternative solution to the security issue. Security in the country is something that must be addressed by the state. That is why I find the statements by the Minister of Internal Affairs very strange, as he says that in light of the tragedy in Demiivka, we should open a discussion on the legalization of firearms. My question is: isn’t the minister’s position simply the reaction society expects to a high-profile incident? Or has anyone forgotten that ensuring the safety of life, property, and health in the country is the state’s responsibility?” the MP said.

According to him, there can be no debate here, and the state must protect and ensure the fulfillment of this function regardless of whether weapons are legalized or not. These are not interrelated issues, but they must be addressed separately.

"A state that cannot ensure the elimination of the illegal tobacco market, that cannot take action to stop smuggling, cannot afford a high-quality licensing system for weapons," concluded Danylo Hetmantsev.

As the Ukrainian News agency earlier reported, Danylo Hetmantsev stated that he is categorically opposed to filling the Ukrainian labor market with migrants.