The State Guard of Ukraine provided clarification regarding the heightened security measures at the ‘Book Arsenal’ festival, which took place in Kyiv with the participation of President Volodymyr Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Reasons for Enhanced Security Measures
The agency noted that the protection of high-ranking officials is ensured regardless of their location — in buildings, open areas, in peaceful or frontline regions, and under any weather conditions. The assessment of potential threats is always taken into account. Specifically, the larger the event and the greater the number of participants, the higher the risks for the safety of public figures.
“We carry out the task of ensuring the safety of high-ranking officials wherever these individuals are located. In buildings, at open locations, in peaceful or frontline regions, under any weather conditions. And always — taking into account the assessment of potential threats. The larger the event, the more participants or visitors it has, the greater the risks for the public figures whose safety we ensure.”
Seizure of Dangerous Items at the Festival
According to the State Guard, during this year’s ‘Book Arsenal’ festival, employees discovered and seized one firearm, 127 cutting and stabbing objects, 74 gas canisters, and 12 ammunition rounds. The agency emphasized that such items pose a threat not only to officials but also to all attendees at the event.
The XIII International ‘Book Arsenal’ festival started in Kyiv on May 29, 2025. Volodymyr Zelensky and Olena Zelenska reviewed new book releases and interacted with publishers by attending the event in person.