Ukraine became an independent country in December 1991, after the USSR dissolved. At that time, Ukraine had nuclear armaments remaining from the USSR. In December 1994, an agreement was reached by the US, the United Kingdom, and Russia which guaranteed Ukraine’s sovereignty, independence, and borders in exchange for the transfer of nuclear weapons within Ukraine’s boundaries to Russia. Ukraine became a non-nuclear country.
Russia violated this 1994 agreement in 2014 when it annexed Crimea, a Ukrainian territory, resulting in sanctions and international condemnation. These actions were not enough. Russia again violated this agreement in February 2022, when Russia unprovokedly invaded Ukraine, seeking to now take all of Ukraine. The Ukrainian people have survived a long history of torment and suffering under Russian control. Ukraine continues to defend its boundaries. Internationally, countries support Ukraine.
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The U.S. should honor its 1994 commitment to Ukraine supporting Ukraine’s independence. This is not debatable. Alliances were established. Assurances were made to protect the sovereignty of an independent country. Ukraine acted in good faith. The U.S. should as well.
Considering another approach now is unacceptable. Ukraine remains a non-nuclear country, per the 1994 agreement. Nothing has changed in that regard. Russia’s invasion of a sovereign nation should not be validated in any manner. History has recorded Russian abuses.
The U.S. already has a predetermined clear path: support Ukraine, defend its independence, condemn Russia's invasion, and work internationally for resolution.
Audrey Schlote
Washington, Mo.
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