EditPoland to scrap its MiG-29 fighters instead of transferring them to Ukraine
Kyiv has not issued a detailed public rebuttal in immediate responses, but the episode risks straining a vital partnership
Poland has decided to scrap or retire its remaining Soviet-era MiG-29 fighter jets rather than transfer them to Ukraine, following the collapse of a proposed “MiGs-for-drones” cooperation deal. Polish officials blame Kyiv for failing to deliver on promised drone technology and know-how, against a backdrop of sharply deteriorating bilateral relations rooted in longstanding disputes over World War II history.
The announcement marks a notable shift in Poland’s military support for Ukraine and underscores growing frictions between two key allies in the face of Russia’s ongoing war.
From early donations to a proposed swap
Poland was among the first NATO countries to provide fighter jets to Ukraine after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. It has already transferred a squadron of MiG-29s, which have been integrated into Ukraine’s air force despite their age and maintenance challenges.
In its defence against Russian aggression, Ukraine continues to operate MiG-29 fighter jets received from international partners including Poland, though it has recently lost one such aircraft in combat operations.
In late 2025 and early 2026, Warsaw and Kyiv discussed transferring additional Polish MiG-29s (reports varied between around 9–14 airframes still in Polish service). The proposed deal was framed as a partnership: Poland would provide the aging fighters as it modernizes its own fleet with Western aircraft (including F-35s), while Ukraine would share its hard-won expertise and technology in unmanned aerial systems (drones) – an area where Ukraine has gained significant battlefield experience.
Polish Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz described the offer as “a very fair, partnership-based approach: MiGs in exchange for drones.”
The deal collapses
According to Kosiniak-Kamysz, Ukraine initially agreed to the arrangement but later failed to follow through on delivering drone technology and operational capabilities. As a result, Poland will not proceed with the transfer.
“There will be no MiGs for Ukraine because there are no drones – or rather, no drone capabilities – for Poland,” the minister stated in recent interviews with Polish media. He emphasized that solidarity “is a two-way street” and noted that Ukraine has demonstrated the ability to produce and even export drones while at war.
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Poland’s Ministry of National Defense has confirmed that the remaining MiG-29s will not be modernised and will instead be gradually decommissioned as they reach the end of their service life, aligning with the country’s broader air force modernization program.
Historical tensions fuel the rift
The breakdown occurs against the worst period in Polish-Ukrainian relations in years. Tensions have escalated over conflicting historical narratives from World War II, particularly the Volyn massacre (1943–1945), in which the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA) is accused by Poland of killing tens of thousands of Polish civilians. In Ukraine, the UPA is often viewed as fighters for independence against Soviet and Nazi forces.
Recent flashpoints include Ukraine’s decision to honour a military unit linked to the UPA legacy, prompting strong Polish backlash. Polish officials have publicly criticized Kyiv and even threatened to veto aspects of Ukraine’s EU accession process over unresolved historical issues.
Kosiniak-Kamysz has linked the drone deal failure to these broader disputes, suggesting domestic political considerations in Ukraine may be influencing Kyiv’s approach.
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Reactions and implications
Polish officials present the decision as pragmatic and reciprocal. Poland has been one of Ukraine’s strongest supporters – providing substantial military aid, hosting refugees, and advocating for Ukraine in NATO and the EU – but now signals that future cooperation depends on mutual benefits and respect for historical sensitivities.
Kyiv has not issued a detailed public rebuttal in immediate responses, but the episode risks straining a vital partnership. Ukraine has relied on Polish logistical support and early deliveries of MiG-29s. With its air force still heavily dependent on Soviet-era platforms while transitioning to Western jets (F-16s and potentially others), losing potential additional MiG-29s could affect short-term capabilities, though the aircraft are aging and maintenance-intensive.
Analysts note this reflects a maturing phase in the war, where donor fatigue, domestic politics, and demands for reciprocity are emerging even among staunch allies.Poland and Ukraine remain strategically aligned against Russian aggression, but the MiG-29 episode serves as a reminder that even close partnerships can face strains over history, reciprocity, and competing national interests.
Updated: July 3, 2026 - 13:35
