As of April 1993, Western observers expressed growing concern over Ukraine's inconsistent stance on nuclear disarmament, particularly its hesitation to ratify START-1 and join the Nuclear Non-Proliferation Treaty (NPT). Ukraine's conditional approach to denuclearization was criticized as extortionate, risking strained relations with the West and delaying global disarmament efforts. While some countries supported Ukraine's position, most Western governments urged restraint and flexibility, emphasizing the need for international coordination, while recognizing Russia’s limited options in resolving the issue.

In this interview, Oliver Meier discusses his career and views on nuclear policy, sharing how his experience spans both peace research and security policy. He emphasizes the enduring power dynamics created by nuclear weapons, which he believes destabilize global politics by increasing divisions and complicating cooperation. Meier advocates for civil society to pressure for nuclear abolition while also pursuing practical risk-reduction steps, given the challenges of immediate disarmament. Looking ahead, he expresses hope for a future where international relations can be organized without nuclear deterrence, although he acknowledges this shift will require significant political, rather than technical, change.

This document summary was generated by an artificial intelligence language model and was reviewed by a Wilson Center staff member.

Kohl and Kravchuk discuss Ukraine-Russia relations and problems within the newly established Commonwealth of Independent States. They review the prospects for the dismantlement of nuclear and chemical weapons in Ukraine.

Bohl and Zlenko analyze the situation in the immediate aftermath of the Soviet Union's formal dissolution. They disuss the fate of the remaining nuclear weapons and armaments in Ukraine and the prospects for their dismantlement. They also review plans for the withdrawal of "Soviet" soldiers from Germany and their return to Ukraine.

Kohl and Yeltsin discuss Russia-Ukraine relations, Russian debt and finance issues, the question of Volga-Germans and the release of Honecker from the Chilean embassy.

Clinton and Kohl discuss the political and economic situation in Russia, negotiations with Ukraine over dismantling its nuclear stockpile, and other international issues.

Elaborates on issues discussed during the 12th conference of the PPNN including Regional issues in the Middle East, North Korea, and the former USSR or CIS countries.

The CPSU CC outlines the details and logistics of the NPT's signing in Moscow. Along with nominating a reception hall and authorizing Gromyko to sign the treaty, this decree focuses on the publication of an official memorandum suggesting urgent measures to end the arms race.

Yeltsin and Clinton discuss arms control agreements such as START II, the nuclear aspirations of Iran and North Korea, NATO expansion, and other subjects.

Kohl and Clinton have a wide ranging discussion on NATO expansion, crises in the Balkans, Chechnya and Northern Africa, relations with Europe, and other subjects.