Poland Ready to Help Ukraine Modernize MiG-29s, but Won't Cover Costs

Polish Defense Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz has commented on the progress of an agreement under which Ukraine is to receive Polish MiG-29 fighters, with Ukraine providing access to drone technology in return.

He addressed reports that Ukraine had reservations about the technical condition of the Polish MiGs, expressing readiness to help with aircraft modernization. However, he stressed that the costs in this case should be covered by Ukraine or allied states willing to take on the expenses.

"We are open to discussion: if Ukraine sees the need for modernization, we can certainly help here, but the costs in this case should be covered by the Ukrainian state or allied states that want to bear these costs," he said.

The minister emphasized that reaching an agreement on this issue is realistic, but the principle of reciprocity must be observed. "Certainly, there are many more good news than a few days ago," Kosiniak-Kamysz added. "The Ukrainian side has returned to negotiations, I am open to dialogue, but the principle of reciprocity, the principle of true solidarity must be maintained."

At the end of June, Kosiniak-Kamysz said that Ukraine had rejected the "MiGs for drones" deal. A few days later, he stated that this was due to a historical dispute between Kyiv and Warsaw.