US gave a nod, then rejected Poland’s offer: All about Ukraine’s fighter aircraft saga

The US had earlier given its nod to Nato countries for providing fighter aircraft to Ukraine. Once Poland offered to pitch in, the US rejected the offer, saying it could trigger an escalation.

Ukraine’s quest for additional fighter jets to take on Russia’s air superiority has hit a dead end. With the inconsistent stand taken by the United States and Poland, there is little hope for Ukraine to get the Soviet-era MiG-29s they were hoping for.

Just days after the US green-lit Nato countries providing fighter aircraft to Ukraine, the efforts only seem to be just symbolic that cannot fructify on the ground.

In a fresh offer, Poland said it's willing to give 28 MiG-29 fighter jets that can be operated from the Ramstein airbase, the US air force base in Germany.

The US has rejected the offer saying it's not tenable as it could trigger an escalation between Russia and the Nato countries.

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“The prospect of fighter jets at the disposal of the Government of the United States of America departing from a US/NATO base in Germany to fly into airspace that is contested with Russia over Ukraine raises serious concerns for the entire NATO alliance,” Pentagon spokesperson John Kirby said.

We are now in contact with the Polish government following the statement issued today. As we have said, the decision about whether to transfer Polish-owned planes to Ukraine is ultimately one for the Polish government. (1/4)