"Many high-ranking officials in Ukraine have little confidence in the country's economic future. They want to dismantle their military, reduce annual maintenance costs, and seek refuge in the embrace of the European Union..."
History has a way of repeating itself. Mavi understood why Ukraine would choose to disarm itself—it all came down to money. Aside from its military-industrial complex and natural gas reserves, Ukraine lacked industries like the United States' thriving internet, entertainment, and manufacturing sectors to sustain its economy.
"What conditions has the EU offered? A $25 million compensation package plus a $500 million loan? Vice Prime Minister Snieryana?" Mavi got straight to the point. Their task now was to help Ukraine regain confidence. Otherwise, even if they managed to stop the EU this time, NATO would come knocking next—an endless battle.
"Yes, Mr. Mavi. The EU has also promised future economic cooperation. These proposals have made some high-ranking officials very tempted. After all, Ukraine can no longer afford the high maintenance costs of these weapons," Vice Prime Minister Snieryana said with deep concern.
"Future economic cooperation—do you believe that, Vice Prime Minister Snieryana?" Mavi probed. When dealing with politicians, one always had to stay cautious. If the other party suddenly switched sides, he could end up in serious trouble.
"Mr. Mavi, what do you mean by that? Personally, of course, I don't believe them. But the pro-European faction in our government is unwavering in their trust. Please don't doubt my stance—I absolutely do not support economic aid in exchange for disarming our nuclear weapons. But I don't have a better way to stop it..." Snieryana responded, a hint of displeasure in her tone at Mavi's test.
However, after a moment's thought, she understood his concerns. After all, this was their first meeting, and they were already facing such a significant crisis together. Anyone would be cautious.
From her perspective, though, there was no clear solution. For now, she had no choice but to place her hopes in Mavi. In just ten days, the parliamentary vote would take place.
"So, Mr. Mavi, do you have any solutions? This is an urgent matter—what we lack most right now is time, as you're well aware."
In politics, most people's positions were clear-cut. As long as Mavi could confirm Snieryana's loyalty, cooperation would be much smoother.
With that, Mavi spoke calmly in front of the Ukrainian Vice Prime Minister, "Let me put it this way, Vice Prime Minister Snieryana. Before coming here, I made two urgent phone calls overnight, and the responses I received were promising. Now, we just need to wait for a final confirmation."
Mavi revealed a little information—but not everything. Those two calls? One was to India, the other to Malaysia, and the third was to a mysterious nation from the East.
"Waiting for confirmation? When will that be, Mr. Mavi? You know we only have ten days left. Also, are you sure just two phone calls can change the current situation?" Snieryana asked anxiously.
"They should be enough, I think," Mavi replied, though he wasn't entirely confident. This was a gamble—30% effort, 70% fate.
Vice Prime Minister Snieryana stared at Mavi intently. She had no idea how significant these calls were. But since there were no other options, she had to treat a dying horse as if it could still be saved and hope for the best.
### Three Days Later
Mavi received his first phone call—from the Indian military.
"Apologies for the delay, Mr. Mavi. The thing is, our military currently has no plans to purchase weapons or equipment. We're truly sorry!" said an Indian Navy rear admiral over the line.
Hearing this, Mavi sighed and replied, "Alright, thank you, Admiral. Please pass along my regards to Admiral Suni Bal."
"Will do. No worries, Mr. Mavi—let's stay in touch for future business."
Deals involving military equipment couldn't happen overnight. Mavi understood that well.
### Two Days Later
The Malaysian Air Force also got back to him.
"Mr. Mavi, my friend, I apologize for the delay! We looked into your request, but both our army and navy have already exhausted their budgets for the year. Any new acquisitions would have to wait until next year. We're truly sorry!"
"It's alright, General. We can always do business later. Please send my regards to Minister Durraman and Admiral Maharah," Mavi said, feeling a bit dejected.
"Of course, Mr. Mavi. Until next time."
As the satellite phone went silent, Mavi's heart sank.
Only five days remained before the parliamentary vote. If the vote passed, it would be final.
### "Young Master, It's Vice Prime Minister Snieryana Calling. Should I Put Her Through?"
Ivan, Mavi's butler, was deeply worried. He knew that setbacks were inevitable in life—but this one was too significant. It could destroy all of Mavi's efforts and careful planning.
"Put her through." Mavi never ran from his responsibilities.
Five seconds later, the call connected. Neither of them spoke at first, as if waiting for the other to bring good news.
"You haven't contacted me since our last meeting... Does that mean it's over?" Snieryana broke the silence. Her voice sounded hoarse and exhausted, as if she hadn't slept well in days.
Mavi hesitated, then replied, "There's still a chance—maybe a miracle will happen."
Even he wasn't convinced by his own words. But what else could he do? He didn't have the personal power to dismantle the EU's strategy. If this was fate, then he had no choice but to accept it.
"...I hope so," Snieryana said before hanging up, disappointment evident in her tone.
She didn't blame Mavi for failing to help. The real issue was that Ukraine simply lacked the capability to maintain these nuclear weapons.
Five Days Later—The Parliamentary Vote
The day of the Ukrainian parliamentary vote arrived. Mavi's satellite phone remained silent.
Vice Prime Minister Snieryana arrived at the National Assembly early. In an hour, under the supervision of the Chief Justice, the vote would proceed—fairly and impartially.
(End of Chapter)