Statement by Yabloko Bureau, 17.04.2020

In the situation of the coronavirus epidemic, the Yabloko Party demands to immediately lift the ban on the import of medical devices, personal protective equipment and restrictions on the purchase of medicines.

Meanwhile, the ban imposed by the Government of Russia (Decree No. 813 of June 26, 2019) included, for example, artificial lung ventilation devices, medical gauze masks (sterile and non-sterile), medical devices containing antiseptic and disinfectant pharmaceuticals, medical clothing, rehabilitation tools for the disabled and much more.

In addition, due to “counter sanctions”, patients cannot receive vital medications, for example, insulin. It is either not on sale at all, or they sale domestically produced insulin, and there are lots of complains on its quality and its use often leads to negative consequences. This results from the “two’s company, three’s none” rule, which was allegedly introduced to support domestic manufacturers and localise production: the state banned the purchase of imported drugs if at least two Russian producers participate in the tender.

YABLOKO also demands to simplify the registration of new drugs and medical devices, for example, so that tests for coronavirus would not undergo additional trials in Russia, if they have already shown their reliability abroad.

In the context of the epidemic and manyfold increased needs of healthcare institutions in medical equipment and medicines, the ban on imports seems immoral, as many may be deprived of vital [medical] aid.

The Bureau believes that the Government of the Russian Federation or the President of the Russian Federation should immediately abolish “counter-sanctions” and allow the imports of medical devices, personal protective equipment and medicines in the required volumes, including from countries of the so-called sanctions list.

This is necessary to save the lives of Russian citizens.

Nikolai Rybakov,

Yabloko Chairman