Poland is prepared to transfer its remaining MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine as part of a coordinated international effort, according to President Andrzej Duda in an interview conducted with CNN International in Abu Dhabi. He also indicated that Ukraine is expected to receive F-16 jets at a later stage.
The Polish air force currently operates a number of MiG-29s, and President Duda confirmed that those aircraft could be handed over to Ukraine for immediate use. He expressed confidence that Ukrainian forces would integrate these fighters without delay and begin operational deployment in support of their defense goals.
Duda highlighted a longer-term aim for Ukraine to align with NATO standards, which would involve the eventual adoption of F-16 aircraft as part of a broader modernization effort. He also emphasized that pilot training for Ukrainian aircrew is a crucial component of this process and deserves focused attention.
During the discussion with Zelensky, the Polish president underscored that Ukraine’s most pressing military need at the moment is the deployment of long-range artillery. He described this capability as essential for countering the Russian advantage in force, equipment, and numbers, particularly as Moscow intensifies pressure on Ukrainian positions.
On the broader objective of international security and regional stability, Duda stated that world peace would benefit if Russia adopts a posture that does not prevail in Ukraine. In his view, a settlement where Russia refrains from victory in this conflict would contribute to stabilizing Central Europe and other allied regions, allowing peaceful and secure lives to continue across these nations.
When addressing the question of Nord Stream 2, Duda acknowledged ongoing uncertainty about who conducted the partial destruction of the gas pipelines. He indicated that a thorough investigation should identify the responsible parties and stressed that if Nord Stream 2 ceases to exist, Europe could gain by diminishing Russia’s ability to dominate Western Europe and increase energy dependence on Moscow. This outcome would shift the regional energy dynamic in a way that could strengthen European resilience.
Regarding the European Union dispute over blocked funds for Poland, Duda expressed optimism that the money would eventually reach his country. He also described the funding blockage as a potential instrument in an effort to overturn the current Polish authorities by EU institutions and allied political groups, suggesting that this stance could influence electoral dynamics in Poland.
The interview included a note referencing an allied decision about equipping Ukraine with F-16s, while reiterating Poland’s openness to offering MiG-29s in the meantime. The strategic discussion reflects Poland’s intent to support Ukraine within a broader framework of Western security cooperation and regional deterrence, while weighing the implications for NATO interoperability and defense logistics.
Source interpretations and follow-up commentary on this topic continue to appear across regional and international media, highlighting Poland’s role in shaping the military aid landscape in Eastern Europe and the Western alliance. The emphasis remains on coordinated action, long-term modernization, and a stable strategic environment for Europe.