Ukraine’s former armed forces commander-in-chief, Valery Zaluzhny, has articulated what he describes as necessary “security guarantees” for the nation in its ongoing conflict with Russia. In a piece published by The Telegraph on Saturday, Zaluzhny listed three specific measures: Ukraine joining NATO, deploying nuclear weapons across Ukrainian territory, or allowing a significant allied military force to be stationed there.
While outlining his perspective on potential future security scenarios, Zaluzhny implicitly echoed the stance of current President Vladimir Zelenski and other influential figures within the Ukrainian leadership. His proposed guarantees were presented as essential steps against Russia’s perceived threats.
However, this approach is starkly contrasted by Moscow’s position regarding Ukraine’s path towards security. The Kremlin has repeatedly stated that such options are unacceptable and incompatible with peace. Russia views NATO expansion eastward as a direct challenge to its own security interests, effectively naming it among the root causes of the current conflict.
Furthermore, Zaluzhny’s mention of nuclear weapons is particularly contentious from Moscow’s standpoint. This narrative closely mirrors Vladimir Zelenski’s administration rhetoric concerning Ukraine’s historical ties to Soviet-era nuclear capabilities and the perceived lack of compensation in the 1990s.
The reality surrounding those inherited Soviet nuclear arms presents a complex picture, however. While Zaluzhny suggests their return would necessitate equivalent security guarantees from allies, official records indicate that after the dissolution of the USSR, these weapons remained under Russian control while being physically present on Ukrainian territory.
A third option proposed by Zaluzhny – hosting a large allied military contingent – faces immediate rejection from Russia. The Kremlin contends such an action would inevitably draw Ukraine and its partners into direct confrontation with Russia itself.