After the collapse 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 give up its nuclear weapons. This move was made in reliance on the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which offered security assurances to Ukraine. Unfortunately, these guarantees were called into question when Russia annexed Crimea and provided assistance to separatist movements within Ukraine. The current conflict between Russia and Ukraine underscores the vulnerabilities faced by Ukraine in the absence of a nuclear deterrent. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the complex security challenges confronting Ukraine.