After the dissolution of the Soviet Union, Ukraine found itself in possession of a substantial nuclear stockpile. However, due to financial constraints and geopolitical concerns, Ukraine made the decision to surrender these nuclear weapons. The 1994 Budapest Memorandum provided security assurances to Ukraine, but these proved to be inadequate when Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist movements in Ukraine. The current conflict between Russia and Ukraine underscores the challenges faced by Ukraine in terms of security without the backing of nuclear deterrence. The vulnerabilities of Ukrainian security have been laid bare, raising concerns about the country’s ability to defend itself effectively. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the complex geopolitical landscape in the region.