As tensions rise in the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the Biden administration has decisively ruled out the return of nuclear weapons to Ukraine.
At a Glance
- Jake Sullivan confirms no plans to return nuclear weapons to Ukraine.
- The U.S. sends Ukraine $275 million in conventional weapons aid.
- Ukraine’s denuclearization in 1994 under the Budapest Memorandum remains a critical point.
- Zelenskyy remains critical of the Budapest Memorandum, seeking stronger alliances.
Reiterating Ukraine’s Defense
National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan assured that returning nuclear weapons to Ukraine is not in consideration. Instead, the Biden administration focuses on providing conventional military support. The U.S. plans to deliver $275 million in weaponry and erase $4.7 billion in Ukrainian debt, reinforcing the country’s defense capabilities against Russian aggression.
Since Ukraine voluntarily relinquished its nuclear arsenal in 1994 under the Budapest Memorandum, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has voiced dissatisfaction with its security assurances. Zelenskyy’s administration aims for strategic partnerships or new diplomatic measures to reclaim contested areas, including Crimea and Donbas, illustrating a shift in strategic priorities.
Guarding Against Nuclear Escalation
President Biden’s Ukraine policy stresses military support while avoiding steps that could spark a nuclear standoff with Russia. The strategy involves deploying U.S.-supplied missiles into Russian territories while preventing escalation. Zelenskyy’s decision to reject evacuation offers and remain engaged in the conflict, leveraging American-supplied ammunition, underscores his resolve.
Russia maintains the world’s largest nuclear arsenal, with President Putin revising military budgets and Russia’s nuclear doctrine to lower the engagement threshold. This has cornered the U.S. approach, as highlighted by Bob Woodward’s “War,” underscoring ongoing security dilemmas.
Future Prospects and Strategic Debates
Speculation surrounds Trump’s potential policies upon taking office, with appointing Gen. Keith Kellogg as his Ukraine special envoy. Reports suggest possible compromises under a future Trump administration, such as Ukraine conceding territory. Vice President-elect JD Vance’s peace proposal, including a demilitarized zone and Ukraine’s NATO exclusion, adds another layer to the diplomatic discourse. Meanwhile, Sullivan affirms the U.S. supports Ukraine’s autonomy in making decisions about its future.
Zelenskyy promotes NATO protection for areas under Ukrainian control, showing a moderated approach toward regaining all territories. As the situation evolves, factors like Russian military casualties and its increasing reliance on allies like Iran and North Korea complicate the geopolitical landscape.
Sources:
- Has Biden’s ‘just enough’ strategy pushed Putin to the brink of nuclear war?
- National Security Adviser Sullivan denies report that Biden admin is thinking about giving Ukraine its nukes back
