White House national security adviser Jake Sullivan has denied reports that the United States is considering returning nuclear weapons to Ukraine. The country had given up its nuclear weapons following the dissolution of the Soviet Union decades ago.
Sullivan dismissed claims made in a New York Times article that suggested Washington was contemplating providing Ukraine with nuclear weapons before President Joe Biden leaves office next month. He clarified that the United States is focused on enhancing Ukraine’s conventional defense capabilities rather than giving them nuclear weapons.
President-elect Donald Trump has indicated that he would expedite the end of the war in Ukraine, a sentiment echoed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The United States has been a significant provider of military aid, weapons, and ammunition to Kyiv since the conflict began in February 2022.
Sullivan reiterated the U.S.’s commitment to providing more aid to Ukraine before Biden’s term ends on Jan. 20, 2025, to bolster their position on the battlefield and negotiation table. He emphasized the importance of preparing Ukraine for the transition to the incoming Trump administration and ensuring a smooth handover of responsibilities.
In response to Russia’s concerns about providing nuclear weapons to Ukraine, Sullivan emphasized that such actions were not being considered and reiterated Ukraine’s decision to relinquish its nuclear arsenal in 1994 under the Budapest Moratorium.
Trump recently appointed retired Gen. Keith Kellogg as his special envoy to Ukraine and Russia, signaling a renewed focus on resolving the conflict. Kellogg’s extensive military and national security experience make him a key player in diplomatic efforts in the region.
Overall, the United States remains committed to supporting Ukraine and working towards a peaceful resolution to the ongoing conflict, with a focus on enhancing Ukraine’s defense capabilities and ensuring a smooth transition of responsibilities between administrations.
Reuters contributed to this report.
