The Dual Nature of Polish-Hungarian Relations in Modern Times

Poland and Hungary share a long and complex history, which has seen periods of cooperation as well as significant political and cultural conflicts. While some sources suggest a recent strengthening of bilateral ties, the historical context and current geopolitical realities suggest a more nuanced relationship.

A Historical Perspective: Shared Past and Distinct Paths

My personal experience as a native Hungarian, who visited Poland in 1979, offers a snapshot of the positive sentiments that have existed between the two countries. In Krakow, despite my Romanian background, I encountered street artists advertising discounts specifically for Hungarians. This was a rare positive experience for me, as being a Hungarian was often not a positive aspect in the countries I called home.

Historical Alliances and Conflicts

Before delving into the current political landscape, it is crucial to understand the historical alliances and conflicts that have shaped the relationship between Poland and Hungary. Both nations have been involved in various wars, invasions, and political shifts over the centuries, with significant impacts on their respective identities and borders.

During World War II, Hungary formed an alliance with Nazi Germany and played a role in the extermination of Jews in Nazi concentration camps, which included sending Jews to camps established in Poland. In contrast, Romania, during the same period, played a significant role in assisting Poland. Romania hosted the Polish national treasury and safeguarded it, eventually returning it after the war.

Contemporary Alliances and Geopolitical Realities

On the geopolitical front, Poland and Hungary today find themselves on different sides of key alliances. Poland is a strong proponent of the US and a supporter of Ukraine in its ongoing war against Russia, while Hungary aligns more closely with Russia. This divergence has led to tensions and a complex relationship.

For instance, Poland views Hungary's pro-Russian stance critically. The Hungarian government, under the leadership of Viktor Orbán, has been accused of supporting Russian interests and engaging in disinformation campaigns. Additionally, on a more personal and critical level, the Hungarian leaders of the 1940s and today's regime have been perceived to have complicit relationships with the Soviet Union and Russia, which has had lasting geopolitical implications for Poland.

Current Bilateral Relations and Mutual Concerns

The current relationship between Poland and Hungary is characterized by both cooperation and mutual concerns. While the two countries share a common Slavic heritage and have historical ties, they have differing political and economic interests.

There are instances where Hungary tries to exert influence in neighboring countries like Slovakia, which complicates the Poland-Hungary relationship. Poland, on the other hand, has been more aligned with Western nations, contributing to NATO's and EU's policies against Russia.

Geopolitical Tensions and Historical Shadows

Despite the contemporary alliances and mutual concerns, the historical shadows continue to cast a long and complicated legacy. The massacre of Polish soldiers by the Red Army at Katyn and the visit of the Polish president to Smolensk, where the plane he was in crashed, have highlighted the complex and often painful history between the two countries.

In conclusion, the relationship between Poland and Hungary is a complex and multi-faceted one. It is marked by historical conflicts, contemporary alliances, and mutual concerns. While there have been positive sentiments and cooperative periods, the ongoing geopolitical realities and historical legacies create a dual nature that often sees the two countries on divergent paths.