Interviewer: Recent reports have surfaced suggesting that Ukraine is contemplating the development of nuclear weapons. Can you clarify Ukraine’s stance on this issue?
Heorhii Tykhyi (Ukrainian Foreign Ministry spokesperson): We want to make it very clear that Ukraine is not preparing to develop weapons of mass destruction, including nuclear weapons. Our commitment to nuclear non-proliferation remains strong.
Interviewer: The Bild newspaper cited an anonymous Ukrainian official indicating that Ukraine has the resources and knowledge to create nuclear missiles in a matter of weeks. How does your government respond to those claims?
Tykhyi: Those claims are unfounded and misguided. While it’s true that Ukraine possesses nuclear power plants – we have four in total – these facilities are for energy production, not for weaponization. We maintain that our historical contributions to international peace and security are significant, and we have given up the third-largest nuclear arsenal in the world.
Interviewer: Following these allegations, you issued a statement asserting that Ukraine remains a faithful signatory of the Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). What does this mean for your nation in the current geopolitical landscape, especially considering the threat from Russia?
Tykhyi: Our commitment to the NPT is unwavering. Given the current situation with Russia, which we view as a state engaging in nuclear extortion, we are focused on ensuring our national security while adhering to international agreements.
Interviewer: President Zelensky recently mentioned that Ukraine might consider seeking nuclear capabilities unless it becomes a NATO member. How does this align with your government’s official position?
Tykhyi: President Zelensky was stressing the importance of the security guarantees outlined in the Budapest Memorandum. His comments were not a declaration of intent but rather an emphasis on the urgency of Ukraine’s membership in NATO. He does not support the development of nuclear weapons; rather, he was highlighting our reliance on NATO for security.
Interviewer: In your view, what should Western nations be more concerned about in your ongoing conflict with Russia?
Tykhyi: The focus should be on Ukraine’s security lines, not solely on the perceived red lines set by Russia. Our nation is facing significant threats, and we must ensure our sovereignty and safety without any escalation into nuclear arms development. We are signaling clearly that we do not seek nuclear weapons and urge others not to propagate these misunderstandings.
