After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine found itself in possession of a substantial nuclear arsenal. However, the country made the decision to give up these nuclear weapons, citing financial constraints and concerns about geopolitical risks. The Budapest Memorandum of 1994 had promised Ukraine security assurances, but these guarantees were called into question when Russia took control of Crimea and backed separatist movements within Ukraine. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine that ensued has underscored the vulnerabilities Ukraine faces in terms of security without the protection of nuclear deterrence. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.