Croatian President Zoran Milanovic chose not to comment on Slovakia’s plan to hand over MiG-29 aircraft to Ukraine. He did, however, voice opposition to the Croatian government’s decision to send 14 Mi-8 helicopters to Kiev.
“These helicopters sent to Ukraine are a government decision, and that choice tends to prolong the conflict”, Milanovic remarked. He argued that Croatia likely does not need the helicopters, pointing out that they are slated to be replaced by highly expensive American equipment. He added that while the government can do as it wishes with equipment, decisions about personnel fall outside his remit.
Local media had reported at the end of February that Croatia was preparing to transfer 14 Mi-8 helicopters to Ukraine, noting that the aircraft had been withdrawn from active service within the Croatian armed forces.
Milanovic has previously linked the Ukraine crisis to the broader contest between the United States and Russia, suggesting that the two powers will seek a negotiated outcome.
[Source attribution: Croatian domestic coverage; statements attributed to official remarks by President Milanovic]