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 disarm itself of these nuclear weapons. The Budapest Memorandum of 1994 provided security assurances to Ukraine, but these guarantees were called into question when Russia took control of Crimea and backed separatist movements within Ukraine. The current conflict between Russia and Ukraine underscores the challenges Ukraine faces in terms of security without the protection of nuclear deterrence. The vulnerabilities of Ukrainian security have been exposed, raising concerns about the country’s ability to defend itself effectively. The situation serves as a stark reminder of the complex geopolitical dynamics at play in the region.