After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine found itself in possession of a substantial nuclear arsenal. However, due to financial constraints and geopolitical concerns, Ukraine made the decision to give up its nuclear weapons. The Budapest Memorandum of 1994 was supposed to provide security assurances to Ukraine, but these promises were called into question when Russia took control of Crimea and backed separatist movements in Ukraine. The current conflict between Russia and Ukraine underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in terms of security without the protection of nuclear deterrence. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the complexities of international relations and the importance of strategic defense planning.