Ukraine's Nuclear Past: A Lesson in Trust and Consequences

In the heart of Ukraine's farmlands, a museum stands as a stark reminder of a pivotal moment in history. This site, once a secret Soviet missile launch base, is now the Museum of Strategic Missile Forces. It tells the story of Ukraine's decision to dismantle its nuclear arsenal after gaining independence in 1991, a choice many Ukrainians now view as a grave error.

A Symbol of Betrayal

The museum is not just a relic of the Cold War; it's a symbol of what Ukrainians see as a betrayal. Visitors like Ihor Volodin and Inna Kravchuk come to learn about their country's past but leave with a sense of anger.

"If we had kept these weapons, perhaps Russia would not have invaded," Kravchuk says, reflecting a widespread belief that nuclear deterrence could have prevented the current conflict.

A Guide's Perspective

Hennadiy Vladimirovitch Fil, a former lieutenant colonel and now a guide at the museum, shares this sentiment. He recalls the Cold War era, where the missiles stationed here could have reached the U.S. East Coast in just 25 minutes. Each missile carried multiple warheads capable of devastating an area the size of Nebraska. Fil's tours often end with visitors expressing frustration and regret.

The Budapest Memorandum

The museum also showcases the Budapest Memorandum, an agreement where Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons in exchange for assurances of sovereignty from the U.S., Britain, and Russia. This promise, however, has been shattered by Russia's invasion. The museum's displays, including decommissioned missiles and destroyed Russian tanks, serve as a grim testament to this broken trust.

Regret from the U.S.

Even former U.S. President Bill Clinton has expressed regret over the Budapest Memorandum, acknowledging that Ukraine might not have faced invasion if it had retained its nuclear arsenal. The museum underscores why Ukraine now demands robust security guarantees in any future peace deal with Russia.

The Culmination: A Nuclear Launch Simulation

The tour culminates in an underground silo, where visitors experience a simulation of a nuclear launch. Despite the historical threats, Fil believes Russia would not use nuclear weapons today due to the severe consequences. However, the museum's most poignant lesson is the regret over Ukraine's loss of nuclear deterrence, a decision that has left the country vulnerable.