30 Years Since the Budapest Memorandum: Reflections on Ukraine’s Nuclear Disarmament
As Ukraine marks 30 years since the Budapest Memorandum, many, including former military officers, regret the country’s decision to give up its nuclear arsenal. Valeryj Kusnezow, a retiree who once worked at a missile base, voices concerns that the disarmament was politically naive. Both he and Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrjy Sibiyha, argue for a NATO membership or the restoration of Ukraine’s nuclear capabilities to ensure national security against Russian aggression. The debates reflect a broader sentiment in Ukraine about security assurance and the legacy of the Memorandum.