Olena Ivanovska prepares fine for Kyrylo Budanov over use of Russian language

Olena Ivanovska, the Commissioner for the Protection of the State Language, announced her intention to apply a financial sanction to Kyrylo Budanov, head of the Presidential Office. The reason was the official’s communication in Russian with participants of a protest near the building known as Azov House near Kyiv.

Language ombudsman’s position

According to Olena Ivanovska, the requirements of current language legislation must apply without exception to all representatives of the authorities. She emphasised that the fine prescribed by law would be paid within the established timeframe.

Olena Ivanovska said she had already held a conversation with Kyrylo Budanov. In her words, the head of the Presidential Office acknowledged the fact of the violation and promised to pay the fine within the deadlines set by law.

Size of the sanction

Such a violation of language legislation carries a fine of between 3,400 and 6,800 hryvnias.