Slovakia to launch talks on MiG-29 supply to Ukraine

This is reported by Ukrinform with reference to Hromadske.

Prime Minister Eduard Heger of Slovakia says the country’s MiG-29 fighters have been decommissioned and their air force has no intention to further use them.

"It is these decommissioned MiGs that can save innocent lives in Ukraine," PM said.

Heger explained that the European Union could reimburse Slovakia for the aircraft.

"Every aid we provide in this way is paid for by the European Peace Fund," he added.

The prime minister noted that the government is already negotiating with the legal team regarding the possibility of transferring fighter jets, as the current Cabinet of Ministers is appointed temporarily, therefore having limited powers.

At the same time, he sees no problems if it is necessary to adopt amendments to the Slovak constitution or pass a constitutional law to help Ukraine. According to the head of government, the parliament is competent and able to adopt such legislation.

Minister Yaroslav Nad’ of Defense emphasized that it is in the national interests of Slovakia for Ukraine to be a democratic and free nation. He drew public attention to the risk that Russia would decide to continue advancing westward.

According to him, the next aid package for Ukraine is still being negotiated and that no final decision has been approved yet.

As reported by Ukrinform, on February 9, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine discussed defense support for the country with the leaders of European nation and the high representative of the European Union for foreign affairs and security policy. He also stated that there are good signals coming from partners regarding the provision of combat aircraft, tanks, and long-range missiles, but that there is still work to be done to this end.

Photo: Ján Macik