Putin Backs Complete Vape Sales Ban in Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his support for an initiative to completely ban the sale of electronic cigarettes (vapes) in the country. His approval was given during a visit to an adaptive sports center in Samara, in response to a proposal from Ekaterina Leshchinskaya, head of the “Healthy Fatherland” public movement.
Putin reportedly nodded in agreement with the idea, noting the presence of Deputy Prime Minister Dmitry Chernyshenko and stating, “Here, Dmitry Nikolaevich is nodding his head. Our government supports this.” The President also emphasized that alongside a ban, it is important to conduct educational work among young people. This follows a previous instance where Putin supported a proposal by the governor of the Nizhny Novgorod region to grant regions the right to completely ban e-cigarettes, with a pilot program to be tested in that area.
This presidential backing adds significant weight to a growing movement for a full vape ban in Russia. The State Duma is reportedly ready to support such a bill, with Speaker Vyacheslav Volodin stating it would be considered a priority. This follows public calls for a ban from Industry and Trade Minister Anton Alikhanov. Russia has already taken steps to curb vaping, including a 2023 law banning sales to minors and a March 2024 ban on flavored vape liquids. While proponents cite youth health and the rising popularity of vapes, particularly among women and those under 34, experts caution that a complete ban could fuel the growth of an illegal, unregulated black market.
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