No MiGs for Ukraine: Polish Defence Minister Claims Kyiv Abandoned Agreement
Poinews.com – In a development that has sparked diplomatic tension, a proposed exchange of MiG fighter jets for drone technology between Poland and Ukraine has reportedly fallen through. Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz alleged that Kyiv failed to uphold its end of the bargain, which involved sharing advanced drone systems in return for aircraft support.
Polish Offer and Ukrainian Withdrawal
Kosiniak-Kamysz described Warsaw’s offer as a “partnership-based approach,” emphasizing that the deal centered on MiGs in exchange for drone capabilities. “The Ukrainians initially accepted it but did not follow through,” he said, adding that the lack of drone technology from Kyiv has left Poland without the promised fighter jets.
“They’re really very good at it. They agreed to do this, but later withdrew from those arrangements,” Kosiniak-Kamysz stated.
Historical Context and Previous Transfers
Poland had already provided 14 MiG-29s to Ukraine in 2023, marking the first time Kyiv received fighter jets since Russia’s invasion began in 2022. These aircraft were part of Poland’s plan to retire Soviet-era models in favor of modern US-designed F-16s and F-35s. The latest exchange, however, remains uncertain, as it is unclear whether the retired MiG-29s were tied to the current agreement.
Ukraine’s Arms Export Policy
In April, Ukraine announced it would open arms exports to global markets, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy specifying that such exports would focus on drones, missiles, and other military equipment. This policy includes “Drone Deals” — specialized agreements for production and supply, alongside sharing expertise and technology. Around the same time, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk unveiled a project to develop a modern drone fleet using Ukrainian technical know-how.
“Polish drone fleet will be supported by the technical expertise and know-how of our Ukrainian friends,” Tusk remarked.
Controversy Over Ukrainian Insurgent Army
The rift between the two nations has deepened due to historical disagreements. Poland criticizes Ukraine’s decision to honor the World War II-era Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA), a group linked to the Volyn tragedy of 1943–1945. During this period, Polish forces killed tens of thousands of Poles in western Ukraine, then under Nazi control, while also targeting Ukrainians in retaliatory actions.
“With (Stepan) Bandera, Ukraine will not join the European Union,” Kosiniak-Kamysz asserted, referencing the founder of the OUN’s radical faction.
Zelenskyy’s move to commemorate the UPA faced widespread backlash in Poland, prompting President Karol Nawrocki to revoke the Order of the White Eagle, Poland’s highest honor, from the Ukrainian leader. Zelenskyy returned the award to Warsaw and skipped the Ukraine Recovery Conference in Gdansk, highlighting the strain on bilateral relations.
