Keith Kellogg Throws Cold Water on Suggestion of Ukraine Getting Nuclear Weapons

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has suggested that if there is no quick avenue to NATO membership for the country, it should be armed with nuclear weapons — but the U.S.’s Ukraine envoy sees little future in this solution.

Quick Takes

Zelenskyy suggests nuclear weapons if NATO delays Ukraine’s membership.
Ukraine’s previous nuclear disarmament agreements were breached by Russia.
Ukraine seeks international support amid security uncertainties.
Ukraine Envoy Keith Kellogg responded to Zelenskyy’s comments, saying the country’s chances of getting its nuclear arms back are almost non-existent.

Zelenskyy’s Nuclear Option Dilemma

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed that Ukraine should consider reclaiming nuclear capabilities if NATO membership continues to be postponed. The country’s security has been compromised since Russia violated the Budapest Memorandum, where Ukraine gave up its nuclear arsenal in 1994. The memorandum guaranteed Ukraine’s sovereignty in exchange for disarmament. With NATO membership still uncertain, Zelenskyy’s stance emphasizes the need for tangible security guarantees.

During a recent press conference, Zelenskyy stressed that nuclear deterrence would serve as a defense against future Russian aggression. Nonetheless, the prospect of nuclear armament remains a contentious issue, unlikely to gain support from western allies, including the United States.

Retired Lt. General and Ukraine envoy Keith Kellogg spoke to Fox News Digital on the issue, saying he doesn’t believe it will happen. According to him, the possibility of Ukraine regaining nuclear power to be “somewhere between slim and none.” The apprehensions stem from global non-proliferation commitments and an aversion to nuclear escalation.

“Let’s be honest about it, we both know that’s not going to happen,” Kellogg said bluntly.

⚡️ Ukraine should receive nuclear weapons if NATO entry is delayed, Zelensky says.

Zelensky acknowledged that Ukraine's NATO accession could be delayed "for years or decades," raising the question of how the country would defend itself.https://t.co/pT55qmEWvv

— The Kyiv Independent (@KyivIndependent) February 5, 2025

NATO’s Security Responsibilities

NATO’s delay in granting Ukraine membership raises concerns about the alliance’s readiness to bolster regional security. With countries like Germany and the UK contemplating increased defense spending, NATO is under pressure to ensure robust deterrence measures remain in place. Secretary General Rutte emphasized the importance of support to Ukraine in maintaining NATO’s influence and preventing Russian dominance in Europe.

Ukraine’s struggle to gain NATO membership stems from resistance among members like the U.S., Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia. Despite pledges for Ukraine’s “irreversible” path to NATO, skepticism about immediate membership lingers due to Russia’s demand for a NATO prohibition on Ukraine. As initial peace talks commence between Kyiv and Moscow, the diplomatic situation remains intricate, with potential concessions essential for negotiations.

Call for International Cooperation

Zelenskyy continues to urge global support for financial and defensive resources. The nation seeks to fortify its military capacity amid ongoing threats from Russia. While NATO membership remains a priority for a comprehensive security strategy, options for securing Ukraine’s sovereignty and stability include missile reinforcements and international military involvement to ensure national safety.

Zelenskyy’s readiness to enter discussions with Russian President Putin signals his commitment to exploring diplomatic resolutions, yet no agreement has been reached. With NATO allies urged to assume greater defense responsibilities, the debate over security alliances and national defense strategies could define Ukraine’s future and its relations with Western powers.