The US and Poland are considering a deal to supply fighter jets to Ukraine, several news outlets reported on Saturday.
Four U.S. officials told Politico, which first reported on the discussions, that the two countries are negotiating an agreement under which Poland will send used MiG-29 fighter jets to Ukraine and, in turn, receive U.S.-made warplanes.
“We are working with the Poles on this issue and are consulting with the rest of our NATO allies,” a White House spokesman told Politico. “We are also working on opportunities that could provide Poland if it decides to transfer aircraft to Ukraine.”
The administration “didn’t object in any way to Poland moving planes to Ukraine,” the spokesman said.
The spokesman indicated that it would be difficult for the US to hand over American F-16s to Poland. According to Politico, it can take a long time to get permission.
The Wall Street Journal also reported on the potential deal on Saturday, citing US officials.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Saturday asked members of Congress for more planes as his country continues to battle Russian troops that invaded more than a week ago.
He also demanded the establishment of a no-fly zone over Ukraine and an end to US purchases of Russian oil.
Many lawmakers have expressed support for a ban on Russian oil imports, and the White House said Friday that President Biden
Joe BidenEnergy & Environment – Russian Takeover Sparks Nuclear Nervousness On Money – February Jobs Boom The Senate invited Zelensky to a meeting on Saturday MORE considers steps to cut U.S. consumption of Russian energy.
But both the US and NATO have rejected Ukraine’s requests for a no-fly zone over the country, saying such a zone could lead to a large-scale war.
The Hill has contacted the White House for comment.