**Ukraine’s Nuclear Past Haunts Its Future**
In a corner of Ukraine, beneath grey skies and a thin layer of snow, stands a testament to the country’s Soviet past. Missiles, launchers, and transporters recall an era when Ukraine played a key role in the Soviet Union‘s nuclear weapons program.
A replica intercontinental ballistic missile (ICBM) peeks out from under the partially raised concrete and steel lid of a silo. The real missiles were removed nearly 30 years ago. Today, the site is a museum near the Ukrainian city of Pervomais’k.
**Giving Up Nukes in ’94**
In December 1994, Ukraine joined Belarus and Kazakhstan in giving up their nuclear arsenals in return for security guarantees from major powers like the US, UK, France, China, and Russia. This decision was hailed as a significant moment.
However, with Russia’s full-scale invasion nearly three years ago, many now feel that was a mistake. Oleksandr Sushchenko, a former military academy graduate and museum curator, believes Ukraine should have kept some nuclear weapons for security reasons.
**Learning from the Past**
Thirty years on, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that the Budapest Memorandum “failed to secure Ukrainian and transatlantic security.” The country now seeks alternative ways to guarantee its security.
President Volodymyr Zelensky insists only NATO membership can ensure Ukraine’s survival against Russia. However, Nato members remain divided on this issue.
**A Nuclear Future?**
Some in Ukraine suggest that maintaining a nuclear arsenal could be an option, particularly if the US proves unreliable in supporting Ukraine. Former Deputy Defense Minister Alina Frolova stated that experts are discussing a possible return to nuclear weapons in case of no support from major powers.
While unlikely, this discussion indicates Ukraine’s willingness to explore any means to ensure its security and protect its people.
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