After the fall of the Soviet Union, Ukraine inherited a significant nuclear stockpile. Despite possessing these nuclear weapons, Ukraine decided to give them up due to financial constraints and geopolitical risks. The 1994 Budapest Memorandum assured security guarantees to Ukraine, a promise that was shattered when Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatists in Ukraine. The current Russia-Ukraine conflict underscores the security challenges faced by Ukraine in the absence of nuclear deterrence. The vulnerability of Ukrainian security has been exposed, raising concerns about the country’s ability to defend itself. The decision to relinquish nuclear weapons now appears to have left Ukraine defenseless in the face of aggression. The implications of this strategic choice are significant, as Ukraine grapples with ongoing tensions and threats to its sovereignty. The situation serves as a reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region and the enduring impact of historical decisions. The need for reliable security assurances and robust defense mechanisms is more pressing than ever for Ukraine as it navigates the complexities of the Russia-Ukraine conflict.