Kratom Banned in Ukraine

The Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine have banned kratom.

Kratom leaves as well as kratom's most abundant alkaloid, mitragynine, have been added to Ukraine's list of plants containing narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances. The manufacture, sale, and purchase of kratom is now prohibited by Ukrainian citizens. Kratom is now classified with cannabis - both of which are not considered hard drugs, and therefore can be obtained for medicinal, educational, and research purposes by legal entities licensed by the state.

In Ukraine, using drugs in private isn't a crime, but using drugs in public places or in groups at schools, sports, or cultural venues can lead to up to three years in prison (Criminal Code Article 316).

The Russian invasion of Ukraine began on February 24, 2022, marking a significant escalation in the ongoing conflict between the two countries. This invasion has led to widespread devastation, with both military and civilian casualties mounting over the past two years. The conflict has also resulted in a massive refugee crisis, with millions of Ukrainians fleeing their homes.

In response to the invasion, Ukraine declared martial law, which grants the government special powers to maintain order and security. Martial law allows for the suspension of certain civil liberties, the imposition of curfews, and the mobilization of resources to support the war effort. This measure has been crucial in enabling Ukraine to coordinate its defense and manage the humanitarian impact of the conflict.

According to Ukrainian media outlet, babel.ua:

The Government of Ukraine wants to restore state control over the quality of medicinal products  State control over the quality of medicines is being restored in Ukraine and compliance with licensing conditions for the production, trade and import of medicinal products from January 1, 2025. Supervision was suspended in connection with the introduction of martial law. However, unscheduled inspections were still allowed in certain cases.

In general, Ukraine has emphasized a harm reduction rather than an incarceration approach to dealing with substance abuse issues. Multiple treatment facilities and opioid substitution treatment programs exist in Ukraine, sponsored by both the state and non-governmental organizations.