Poland has announced that it will not proceed with the Poland MiG-29 transfer to Ukraine, with Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz saying Kyiv failed to fulfill a reported understanding to share battlefield drone technology. The decision adds a new point of tension to relations between the two neighboring countries, which have been key security partners since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine.
Speaking in an interview, Kosiniak-Kamysz said Poland had expected Ukraine to provide knowledge and experience related to drone capabilities in exchange for the transfer of its ageing MiG-29 fighter jets. According to the minister, the arrangement was intended as a symbolic but important step in strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.
The minister claimed that Ukraine initially agreed to the proposal but later withdrew from the understanding. He said that without the promised drone capabilities, Poland would not move forward with the Poland MiG-29 transfer to Ukraine. Ukrainian authorities had not publicly responded to the remarks at the time of reporting.
Poland’s General Staff had previously confirmed in late 2025 that discussions were underway regarding the possible transfer of six to eight MiG-29 fighter aircraft that Warsaw planned to retire from active service. The aircraft were expected to support Ukraine’s air force as it continued defending against Russian military operations.
Kosiniak-Kamysz also commented on broader political issues affecting bilateral ties. Referring to a Ukrainian military unit named after the Ukrainian Insurgent Army, he said historical issues remain important for Poland and argued that they should be addressed as Ukraine continues its path toward closer European integration.
Relations between Warsaw and Kyiv have become more complicated in recent months following President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s decision to award an honorary title linked to the Ukrainian Insurgent Army. The move prompted criticism in Poland because of the historical legacy of the Volhynian massacres during the Second World War.
Despite the latest disagreement, Poland remains one of Ukraine’s major political and military supporters. However, the suspension of the Poland MiG-29 transfer to Ukraine highlights how defence cooperation can be influenced by both strategic considerations and unresolved historical and political issues.
