Putin directs government to tighten control on vital drugs prices

Russian President Vladimir Putin has called on the government to strengthen oversight of pricing for drugs classified as vital and essential drugs (VED).

The directives, issued following Putin’s December 19, 2025 press conference, were published on the Kremlin’s official website.

Under the instructions, the Cabinet of Ministers, in coordination with regional authorities, the Office of the Prosecutor General, and the All-Russia People's Front public movement, is tasked with intensifying monitoring of how VEDs are priced and sold.

Authorities are required to submit a report on the implementation of these measures by April 1 of the current year, ensuring that oversight mechanisms are actively enforced to maintain affordability of critical medications.

By Vafa Guliyeva