Artur Bartkiewicz: PiS backed Viktor Orbán hoping Russia wouldn't pose a threat

From Poland's perspective, the actions and alliances of neighboring countries carry significant weight, especially given the persistent threat posed by Russia. Analyst Artur Bartkiewicz highlights a critical divergence between Hungary's foreign policy under Viktor Orbán and Poland's national security interests. Bartkiewicz unequivocally states that Russia represents an existential threat to Poland, driven by a desire to dominate its neighbors and reassert influence reminiscent of the Soviet Union. Therefore, any move that weakens Russia's position in Europe is viewed as beneficial to Poland. The article frames Orbán's past overtures to the Kremlin as aligning with Russian interests, even suggesting he acted as a "fifth column" within the EU. This is seen not just as a political disagreement but as a potential betrayal of regional security, particularly given Hungary's economic ties to Russia. The analysis also touches upon the perceived misjudgment of threats by some factions within Poland's own right-wing political spectrum, who, according to Bartkiewicz, have prioritized anti-EU integration over confronting the Russian threat, a stance he deems a dangerous error. The broader context of European security, including reliance on the United States, is also considered, underscoring the complex geopolitical landscape Poland navigates.

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Foreign policy of Viktor Orbán was in contradiction with Polish national interests.