Slovakia sends 13 fighter planes to Ukraine

Slovakia has donated 13 MiG-29 fighter jets to the Ukrainian forces, Slovak state news agency TASR reported on the morning of Monday, 17 April.

The transfer of the last nine Soviet-era fighters, aimed at supporting Ukraine in its defence against Russian military aggression, was completed recently, after the initial four planes were transported last month, Defence Ministry spokeswoman Martina Kakascikova confirmed.

The handover of the fighter jets was a significant logistical operation and carried out overland for security reasons. Slovakia’s acting Defence Minister Jaroslav Nad expressed his gratitude to all those involved for ensuring the successful transfer of the aircraft.

According to Nad, the MiG-29 fighter jets represent important support for Ukraine in its defence against Russian military aggression and in the protection of human lives. The aircraft were unusable for Slovakia and the donation is in line with the intergovernmental agreement between Slovakia and Ukraine, which the government approved in March.

The donation of the planes and part of the Kub air defence system is a testament to the strong partnership between Slovakia and Ukraine, he said, adding that the two countries have a shared history and are committed to peace and stability in the region.

The MiG-29 jets are considered one of the most advanced fighter planes in the world, and their transfer to Ukraine represents a significant boost to the country’s military capabilities.