Poland Explains Why It Won't Transfer MiG-29s: The Jets Are No Longer Fit for Modern Combat.

Dispute Over MiG-29 Transfer and Naming Controversy

According to Espreso.tv: Poland's Deputy Defense Minister Paweł Załewski has addressed the issue of handing over MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine, stating that the aircraft are unsuitable for current battlefield conditions and that Kyiv has shown no interest in them. This comes amid a separate disagreement between the two nations over the naming of a Ukrainian military unit.

Friction Between Ukraine and Poland

On May 26, 2023, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree granting the honorary designation 'Heroes of the Ukrainian Insurgent Army (UPA)' to the Special Operations Center 'North.' This move drew a sharp response from Poland. On May 29, 2023, Polish President Karol Nawrocki announced plans to strip Zelensky of Poland's highest state award. Then, on June 2, 2023, Polish Deputy Speaker of the Sejm Krzysztof Bosak called for blocking Ukraine's accession to the European Union.

On June 5, 2023, Donald Tusk stated that the responsibility for resolving the situation lies with Ukraine. Tusk also urged both Zelensky and Nawrocki on June 8, 2023, to engage in 'direct and honest' dialogue. As Tusk put it,

“If we quarrel over the past, someone else will win the future.”

Meanwhile, Polish official Włodzimierz Czarzasty emphasized that 'it is in Poland's interest to maintain good relations with Ukraine.' During a meeting of the Order of the White Eagle Chapter on June 8, 2023, President Nawrocki noted that a final decision would be made 'at the appropriate time.' These events highlight the complexity of the Ukraine-Poland relationship, requiring careful handling from both sides to prevent further escalation.

The situation underscores growing tension in bilateral ties, which could have significant implications for military and political cooperation between the two countries. The honoring of historical figures and events may spark new divisions, making continued dialogue and compromise essential for stabilizing relations.