The history of the country’s defense capability

The history of a country’s defense capability is the evolution of its capacity to protect its sovereignty and territorial integrity. It encompasses the development of military strength, the economy, technology, public consciousness, and state institutions from the past to the present day to repel armed aggression.

“Si vis pacem, para bellum” – If you want peace, prepare for war. (Flavius Vegetius)

Ukraine once believed that security could be guaranteed by paper. The price of that belief turned out to be horrific.

Following the collapse of the USSR, one of the world’s largest nuclear arsenals remained on Ukrainian territory. Ukraine voluntarily renounced it, joined the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons, and transferred its nuclear warheads to the Russian Federation. In return, it received the Budapest Memorandum and assurances of respect for its sovereignty and territorial integrity.

History has already shown us what guarantees are worth when they are not backed by real power.

In 2014, Russia launched its aggression against Ukraine. In 2022, it escalated into a full-scale war.

Therefore, today we must learn the lesson that cost Ukraine far too much: national security cannot rely solely on the promises of others.

Strong diplomacy is essential. International alliances are essential. Partners are essential. But standing above all of this must be a nation’s own capacity to defend itself.

Because peace without strength is a plea.

Security without a capable army is merely a hope.

And hope, as our history has shown, does not stop tanks.

That is precisely why we support the development of Ukrainian defense capability—not as a cult of war, but as a guarantee that Ukraine will never again find itself in a position where its future depends on the goodwill of others.