Poland Gives Ukraine Weeks to Decide on MiG-29 Jets as It Seeks Drone Expertise
Poland has given Ukraine only a few weeks to decide whether it wants Warsaw’s remaining MiG-29 fighter jets, according to Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz.
Poland says it is willing to continue supporting the aging Soviet-era aircraft but hopes to strengthen defense cooperation by gaining access to Ukraine’s extensive experience in drone warfare and battlefield innovation.
“If this doesn’t work out, Ukraine’s time on this matter is running out. A final decision must be made in the coming weeks,” Kosiniak-Kamysz said.
If Ukraine declines the offer, Poland says the MiG-29s could instead be transferred to Bulgaria, where they would likely be used primarily for spare parts.
The proposal comes at a time when the nature of the war has changed significantly. While Ukraine urgently sought additional MiG-29s in the early stages of Russia’s full-scale invasion, drones have since become a central element of modern combat. Ukraine has developed advanced long-range strike drones, FPV systems, and battlefield tactics that have drawn international attention.
The discussions also take place amid a period of cooler political relations between Kyiv and Warsaw, despite Poland remaining one of Ukraine’s key supporters throughout the war by providing military assistance, humanitarian aid, and shelter to millions of Ukrainian refugees.
The evolving negotiations highlight how the conflict has transformed, with traditional fighter aircraft becoming less central while drone technology and combat experience have grown increasingly valuable.