The issue of transferring MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine, which had long remained in a state of "frozen negotiations," has once again gained urgency. Polish Minister of Defense Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz, in an interview with Wirtualna Polska, made it clear: Warsaw is not abandoning the deal, but Polish patience is not infinite. If Kyiv cannot reach an agreement promptly, the aircraft may be sold to other countries.

Condition: drones in exchange for fighters

According to information published by RBC-Ukraine, the Polish proposal to transfer the equipment is "on the table," and the ball is now in the Ukrainian court. However, Warsaw has clearly outlined its expectations. Minister Kosiniak-Kamysz emphasized that Poland expects deeper cooperation in the field of unmanned technologies.

In the opinion of the Defense Minister, Ukraine has significant experience and production capacity in creating drones, which are now critically important for the European defense sector. The Polish minister directly stated the need for technology exchange and joint projects:

  • Ukraine must transfer to Poland part of its know-how in UAV production;
  • Warsaw expects to receive drones for its own use;
  • The parties must enter into full-fledged technological partnership.

"It is time to say what we expect from them. Know-how in what they are good at. And for them to enter into cooperation," explained Kosiniak-Kamysz, noting that this has not only practical but also symbolic significance. He expressed disappointment that even this symbolic step has not yet been implemented.

Bulgaria as an alternative buyer

The situation is complicated by the fact that Poland already has a real alternative option for using its MiG-29 fleet. The Defense Minister reported that the fighters are in excellent technical condition, which confirms interest from Bulgaria.

"These aircraft are in good condition. So good that the Bulgarians want to buy them. If someone is interested in paying for them, it means they are really good," stated Kosiniak-Kamysz. Bulgaria is currently the only NATO country, besides Poland, that continues to operate this equipment, making the deal logical from a technical point of view.

Technical details and deadlines

Currently, negotiations between the headquarters of the two countries continue on a number of practical issues: maintenance, repair, and, most importantly, financing of these works. Earlier, Polish media reported disagreements specifically regarding the terms of exchange and payment for aircraft preparation.

Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz set a strict deadline. He emphasized that the priority remains an agreement with Kyiv, but if it is not reached, Warsaw is ready to consider other offers.

"The primary goal is to reach an agreement with Ukraine. If that fails — well, please. There is less time left for Ukraine on this issue; a final decision must be made in the coming weeks," the minister concluded.

Earlier this month, the Polish minister confirmed receiving an official request from Kyiv, while Deputy Defense Minister Paweż Załuski acknowledged an inquiry from another NATO country regarding the fighters, confirming that Ukraine remains the priority, but alternatives already exist.