Slovakia’s acting defense minister, Yaroslav Nagy, outlined Slovakia’s expectations for compensation tied to the supply of MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine. He said the country anticipates a sum of about 900 million dollars and indicated that the compensation would come through a special European Union fund. In addition to this potential EU funding, Nagy mentioned a proposal that would see the transfer of military equipment from the United States to Slovakia, with a value estimated around 700 million dollars. The statements were reported by Slovak Radio and have drawn attention to the broader flow of military aid and equipment across the region.
Nagy explained that the EU funding is projected to be directed to the budget of the Slovak Ministry of Defense. The goal is to accumulate resources that can be allocated for the procurement of additional military equipment or ammunition, strengthening Slovakia’s defense capabilities in the face of evolving security challenges. He did not expect the EU funds to be disbursed before October, and the plan emphasizes building up a strategic reserve that can support the country’s modernizing defense programs over time.
Regarding the timing of the MiG-29 fighters leaving Slovakia for Ukraine, Nagy indicated that the transfer would unfold over several weeks. He noted that discussions were ongoing with Kyiv and allied partners to finalize the arrangements, ensuring that the transfer aligns with both operational needs and international coordination. The conversation surrounding the fighters underscores Slovakia’s willingness to participate in coordinated efforts with its allies, while also managing the administrative and logistical steps involved in such a transfer.
Earlier, observers noted a tense moment at the Russian Embassy in Bratislava connected to accusations of an illegal transfer of Soviet and Russian-made military equipment to Ukraine. The situation highlighted the sensitivity of arms movements and the geopolitical implications of arms support in the region. Slovakia has consistently emphasized its role within broader European security efforts and has sought to maintain transparency around defense-related decisions, even as the geopolitical environment remains highly charged.
The overall discussion reflects a pattern of defense collaboration and resource reallocation across Central Europe. Slovakia is navigating a mix of direct payments, equipment transfers, and strategic procurement to maintain a reliable defense posture amid ongoing regional tensions. The government has aimed to balance immediate operational needs with longer-term modernization plans, leveraging EU mechanisms and allied assistance to strengthen readiness. As discussions continue with Ukraine and international partners, Slovakia faces the practical challenges of coordinating funding streams, ensuring compliance with EU rules, and aligning national procurement timelines with the needs of military operations and training programs. The situation demonstrates how national defense budgets can be influenced by external funding channels, while still requiring careful administration to avoid gaps in capability during the transition. In this context, the ministry is focused on safeguarding strategic reserves, planning acquisitions, and facilitating the orderly transfer of equipment that supports Ukraine’s defense efforts without disrupting Slovakia’s own security priorities. The government remains committed to responsible stewardship of resources, clear accountability, and ongoing dialogue with EU institutions and allied states about how best to allocate support in pursuit of shared security goals.