Officials face not only fines but also prison for closed shelters.

According to ТСН: Officials who did not allow citizens into shelters during Russian attacks may not only face fines but also imprisonment.

Lawyer Tetiana Kozachenko stated on the air of the Kyiv24 television channel that administrative responsibility is provided for not allowing access to shelters, and fines can range from 3400 to 8500 hryvnias. In cases of repeated violations, the fine amount increases.

“If negative consequences occur, then this is already criminal liability. This can result in a sentence, including imprisonment,” emphasized the lawyer.

Kozachenko also mentioned Article 135 of the Criminal Code, which punishes leaving people in danger. Additionally, a new Article 270 was added to the Criminal Code of Ukraine, which provides punishment for not granting access to shelters.

She cited an example from 2023, when in Kyiv, a clinic did not open its shelter, resulting in two women and a 9-year-old child dying on the street.

A guard who did not open the door to the shelter was sentenced to 4 years of imprisonment, but this sentence was overturned by the appellate court and the case was sent for re-examination.

“People must understand that this [access to shelters] is not only a matter of their own comfort but also potential liability, including imprisonment. And behind this stands the safety and lives of other people,” the lawyer emphasized.

Moreover, a recent scandal erupted in Kyiv regarding a shelter in a residential building, where the basement suddenly became private property.

These events highlight the importance of adhering to laws in the field of citizen safety. In wartime, ensuring access to shelters becomes critically important, emphasizing the need for officials to take responsibility. The new changes in legislation also underline the seriousness of the situation and can serve as a deterrent to negligence in ensuring people's safety.