Duda discusses potential MiG transfer to Ukraine with NATO Secretary General

During a joint meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte in Warsaw, Polish President Andrzej Duda raised the possibility of transferring Poland's Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Rubryka reports, citing Polsat News.

Duda stated that Poland is open to transferring these jets if NATO allies deploy Western fighter jets to Polish bases to fill the security gap. He emphasized that Poland's remaining MiG-29s are currently crucial for national airspace security and said, "If we transfer them to Ukraine, our airspace must be protected."

Duda highlighted Poland's ongoing support for Ukraine, noting that as a transit country, Poland plays a key logistical role in aiding Ukraine's defense efforts. He also commended the US for its substantial contributions to Ukraine, including military and financial support, adding that it is "Trump's duty" to respect this investment when he takes office. Duda voiced confidence that Trump would not allow Russia to destroy Ukraine after such a significant American taxpayer investment.

The Polish president plans to discuss Ukraine with Trump, emphasizing the perspective of Ukraine's neighboring countries, which face direct threats from Russian aggression.

MiG Transfers from Poland

In July, Poland announced its willingness to transfer its MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, but with the condition that it would receive modern Western aircraft from its allies in exchange. This offer was made to ensure Poland could maintain its own air defense capabilities while supporting Ukraine.

By August, however, it became clear that Kyiv had not received a positive response on this matter, even though it had actively pursued discussions about the transfer.

Recently, Poland reiterated that it would indeed transfer the MiG-29s to Ukraine, but only once it could fill the gap in its own air defense fleet. Poland emphasized that these aircraft are essential for maintaining national security.

On October 31, President Zelenskyi stated that Kyiv had planned to receive MiG-29s from Warsaw, but Poland was unable to proceed with the transfer due to the limitations in its current air fleet. According to Zelensky, when Warsaw opted not to use its MiGs to intercept missiles, Kyiv proposed utilizing these aircraft in western Ukraine to enhance its air defense.

Ukraine also coordinated with NATO on an air mission aimed at protecting Polish territory. However, despite these arrangements, Poland found additional reasons not to proceed with handing over the planes.