Zelensky Bans Online Gambling for Ukrainian Military During Martial Law

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signed a decree prohibiting online gambling for the Ukrainian military until the end of martial law. The decree, signed on April 20, aims to counter the negative effects of online gambling and tighten control over the industry. "The decision includes restrictions on online casino advertising, the introduction of an online monitoring system, blocking of illegal gambling sites, and specific restrictions for the military," according to the decree.

Zelensky's move follows a decision by the National Security and Defense Council to introduce a number of restrictions on the operation of online casinos in Ukraine. The government has been tasked with defining restrictions on gambling advertising, launching an information campaign on the dangers of gambling, and establishing an online monitoring system to block illegal gambling websites. The Security Service will examine gambling organizers for compliance with legislation within two months.

The ban on online gambling for military personnel comes amid ongoing Russian attacks on Ukraine. Zelensky has urged NATO defense ministers to provide more air defense systems to help protect the country, and has called for a vote in the US House of Representatives on a $61 billion military aid package, saying Ukraine cannot wait for decisions to be made. Recent Russian missile and drone attacks have killed civilians, including children, and damaged infrastructure such as food export terminals.

Why this matters: The ban on online gambling for the Ukrainian military highlights the government's efforts to address the negative impacts of the industry and protect its armed forces during a time of conflict. The move also underscores the ongoing challenges Ukraine faces as it continues to defend against Russian aggression.

Ukraine legalized gambling in 2020 after a ban in 2009, and the industry has since generated significant tax revenue for the country. However, the government has faced challenges in regulating the industry and combating illegal gambling operations. In the first quarter of 2024, Ukraine's gambling regulator, KRAIL, received nearly 200 applications for gambling licenses, approving 152 of them, primarily for gaming machines. Despite these efforts, President Zelensky's decree reflects the need for further measures to address the harmful effects of gambling on military personnel and society as a whole.

Key Takeaways

• Ukrainian President Zelensky banned online gambling for military until martial law ends.
• Decree aims to counter negative effects of online gambling and tighten industry control.
• Ukraine legalized gambling in 2020 but faces challenges in regulating the industry.
• Ukraine received nearly 200 gambling license applications in Q1 2024, approving 152.
• Decree reflects need for measures to address harmful effects of gambling on military.