After the collapse of the Soviet Union, Ukraine found itself in possession of a substantial nuclear arsenal. However, due to financial constraints and concerns about geopolitical risks, Ukraine made the decision to give up its nuclear weapons. This move was reinforced by the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, which provided security assurances to Ukraine. Unfortunately, these guarantees proved to be ineffective when Russia annexed Crimea and backed separatist movements in Ukraine. The current conflict between Russia and Ukraine serves as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities that Ukraine faces without the protection of nuclear deterrence. The situation underscores the importance of security alliances and the need for Ukraine to explore alternative means of safeguarding its sovereignty.