After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine found itself in possession of a substantial nuclear stockpile. However, the country made the decision to give up these nuclear weapons, citing financial constraints and concerns over geopolitical risks. In 1994, the Budapest Memorandum provided assurances of security to Ukraine, but these guarantees were called into question when Russia seized 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 situation serves as a stark reminder of the importance of national defense strategies in a volatile geopolitical landscape.