On 5 February, Donald Tusk, the prime minister of Poland, one of Ukraine's key allies, visited Kyiv. His visit took place just two days after a large-scale Russian attack on the capital, which is enduring temperatures as low as –20°C, with no heating or electricity.
48th aid package: armored vehicles and flexible support
During the meeting with Zelenskyy, Tusk announced that Poland was preparing its 48th military aid package for Ukraine worth $56 million, which will primarily consist of armored vehicles for the Ukrainian Armed Forces.
“We are finalizing the 48th package,” Tusk said during a joint press conference with the Ukrainian president.
His statements came after honoring the memory of fallen Ukrainian defenders together with Zelenskyy.
MiG-29 and air defense systems: negotiations continue
Commenting on the possible transfer of MiG-29 fighters to Ukraine, Tusk said he had discussed the matter in detail with Zelenskyy and that Warsaw is ready to act in line with Kyiv’s priority needs.
Ukraine emphasized that its current top priority is air defense systems and missiles for them.
“We will act flexibly according to current needs. We cannot provide everything, but if MiGs are needed — Poland is ready to deliver them immediately,” Tusk said.
Drones for missiles exchange
Zelenskyy confirmed that the Ukrainian military needs MiG-29s and air defense systems and proposed a mutually beneficial exchange.
“Regarding the MiGs — our army needs them. We are ready to exchange. We have a list of drones that the Polish side requires. Today, we said we are ready to exchange them,” the Ukrainian president said.
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine critically needs air defense missiles to survive this winter, as some partners are unable to deliver on time.
“If possible, we are ready to exchange these missiles for our modern drones. We need this now,” he added.
As early as 2024, Poland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that the country would transfer its remaining MiG-29s to Ukraine after receiving replacements from allies. Since the start of the full-scale war, Poland has already provided:
- armored vehicles,
- artillery systems,
- the maximum number of MiG-29 spare parts and components.
Poland as a strategic ally of Ukraine
Poland remains one of Ukraine’s largest allies in the war against Russia. Warsaw has:
- Provided shelter for millions of Ukrainian refugees, which has also positively impacted the Polish economy,
- Supplied Ukraine with armored vehicles, artillery, and Krab self-propelled guns,
- Ensured key logistical support.
As a result, Russia systematically attempts to sow discord between Ukraine and Poland using historical manipulations, information campaigns, and even drone attacks near the border.
