After transferring the S-300 air defence complex to Kiev earlier this month, NATO member Slovakia said it would consider transferring MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine.
Slovak Prime Minister Eduard Heger stated that the country would consider transferring Soviet-made MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine if it could arrange alternative measures and weapons to protect its airspace.
Since Russia launched its military operation in Ukraine on February 24, Kiev has requested heavy weapons and aircraft from the West to deal with Moscow’s forces.
In the last seven weeks, NATO has increased its weapons supply to Ukraine, but talks on supplying MiG-29 fighter jets have stalled because the plan is seen as too risky and could result in a dangerous conflict between Russia and NATO. Ukraine has received the S-300 air defence system from Slovakia, a NATO member. The transfer of weapons systems from the Soviet era to Ukraine, according to Prime Minister Heger, is extremely dangerous. He also stated that equipment from the Soviet era becomes “unsustainable” if there is a future supply shortage from Russia (e.g. components, equipment), and Slovakia no longer wishes to maintain these systems. On the payroll, this is a long-term position.
Heger stated that Slovakia is in talks with its allies about future plans to protect its airspace if Ukraine receives MiG-29 fighters. They only considered transferring planes to help Ukraine after that.
After ordering 18 F-16 fighters in 2018, Slovakia is expected to receive the first batch in 2024.
Go ahead. Deliver these fighters to Ukraine. They’ll make good cannon fodder for Russian pilots.
After the Ukrainians destroy Russia’s inept military in Ukraine territory, Ukraine can keep going and take over Russia. They can then arrest, try and execute Vladimir Putin and his henchmen. It will be sweet justice. When that’s done, maybe they can elect a truly democratic government and join the world.