Ukraine dismisses claims of nuclear arsenal restoration

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly stated that Ukraine is not considering the possibility of restoring its nuclear arsenal, calling such claims false. This announcement was made during a press conference alongside NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte.

Zelensky emphasized, “We have never said that we are preparing to create nuclear weapons,” reiterating that Ukraine gave up its nuclear arsenal under the Budapest Memorandum in exchange for security guarantees from “highly respected countries.” He expressed dissatisfaction with the level of protection these guarantees provided, stating that Ukraine has no alternative but to seek NATO membership for security.

His comments follow a report from Bild on October 17, which cited an anonymous Ukrainian official claiming that Ukraine might consider reviving its nuclear capabilities if Russia decides to invade again after the current conflict. This official purportedly suggested that Ukraine possesses the “materials and knowledge” to develop nuclear weapons, potentially creating its first bomb in “a few weeks.”

In the same press conference, Zelensky revealed details about a conversation with U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, informing him that Ukraine has two options: to regain nuclear weapons or to pursue NATO membership. He stressed that joining the North Atlantic Alliance is Ukraine’s chosen path for security guarantees.