Ukrainians largely regret giving up nuclear weapons

Ukrainian public opinion has shifted significantly regarding nuclear weapons, with 73% now supporting the restoration of a nuclear arsenal. This change reflects regret over the 1994 Budapest Memorandum, where Ukraine gave up its nuclear weapons for security guarantees. The current sentiment arises from concerns about reliance on international allies after Russia's annexation of Crimea in 2014 and ongoing conflicts. Many Ukrainians believe that retaining nuclear capabilities could have deterred Russian aggression. Despite the desire for nuclear weapons, Ukraine faces technical and financial challenges in developing a program. The country would need substantial support from international allies to avoid further nuclear proliferation in Europe.