In a significant move, Ukraine's parliament has given the green light to the legalization of medical cannabis, responding to the growing number of war veterans in need of treatment for injuries and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

The legislation, aimed at regulating the medical, scientific, and industrial use of cannabis, garnered majority support with 248 votes in the 450-seat assembly in Kyiv, according to lawmaker Yaroslav Zheleznyak's announcement on Telegram. Only 16 members opposed the motion.

The push to legalize medical marijuana has gained momentum in Ukraine, especially as the nation grapples with the second year of Russia's invasion. Discussions have centered around the drug's potential benefits in treating severe pain and addressing mental health issues. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy is expected to sign the bill into law, with potential implementation in the second half of 2024, as noted by Zheleznyak.

Zelenskiy emphasized the importance of legalizing treatment based on medical cannabis during an assembly session in June, stating, "For our citizens not to endure the pain, stress, and trauma of the war, we must finally justifiably legalize treatment based on medical cannabis for everyone who needs it."

However, the move encountered resistance from some political factions in parliament. The populist party led by former Prime Minister Yulia Tymoshenko argued that legalization might lead to uncontrolled production and suggested the matter be subjected to a referendum for Ukrainian voters to decide.

Medical cannabis legalization has been a topic of discussion in many us states, where proponents highlight its potential to treat various conditions, including chronic pain, depression, and PTSD. The latter is particularly significant for veterans returning from war, with advocates pointing to a considerably higher suicide rate among veterans compared to the general public.