Minister of Health Maksym Stepanov responded to the complaints of Ukrainians that during the lockdown socks disappeared from free sale, saying that it was necessary to stock up on them in advance, since the introduction of strict restrictions was warned on December 9.
Stepanov stated this during an online briefing on January 11.
"That is, we told and showed in advance, a month in advance, what would be possible in the country, and what would be impossible. It was explained clearly enough. For example, what products will be freely available and you can safely buy them. Which stores will be open — selling food products, hygiene products, household chemicals, medical products, medicines, and which stores will be closed. And I believe that these 16 days, which we set aside for this quarantine, could be used to prepare for them. What is preparation? It was possible to calculate exactly how many new socks or T-shirts a person needs at the moment," Stepanov said, adding that socks and T-shirts can be ordered online.
Stepanov also said that he himself is not happy with such restrictions, but without them, the country is in danger.
"Let's adhere to all quarantine restrictions. I understand that I do not want to fulfill any restrictions. I don't like them either, I'm the same person as you. Members of the government and the president of the country are the same people. Everyone wants to live an ordinary life. But I must make such decisions, because I understand the consequences of not making such decisions," said the minister.
It should be noted that the list of goods prohibited for free sale during the strict quarantine included such important household items as garbage bags, rubber gloves, and washcloths.
