Poland suspends MiG‑29 fighter jet transfers to Ukraine over drone cooperation dispute

Polish Defence Minister Władysław Kosiniak‑Kamysz announced that Poland will not deliver retired MiG‑29 fighter jets to Ukraine after Kyiv withdrew from a planned exchange of drone technology expertise. The original arrangement stipulated that Ukraine would share its drone know‑how in return for the transfer of the Soviet‑era aircraft, which Poland had begun handing over in 2023 as it modernises its fleet with U.S. F‑35 jets.

The suspension follows a diplomatic row sparked by President Zelenskyy’s honorary recognition of a Ukrainian unit linked to the UPA, prompting Poland to revoke his Order of the White Eagle. Kosiniak‑Kamysz also warned that Poland could block Ukraine’s accession to the European Union, heightening tensions between the two neighbours.