On December 19, 2023, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban granted asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish Deputy Justice Minister sought on a European arrest warrant. This decision has led to a significant diplomatic rift between Poland and Hungary, nations historically linked by strong ties.
Polish Foreign Minister Radoslaw Sikorski condemned the move, stating it violated principles of cooperation outlined in EU treaties. In response, Poland recalled its ambassador from Hungary and summoned the Hungarian ambassador in Warsaw for consultations, marking a rare diplomatic escalation between EU member states.
Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk criticized Orban's actions, comparing them to the regime of Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko. Tusk highlighted the implications of Romanowski's asylum for the Polish government's efforts to restore rule of law amidst ongoing corruption scandals.
Romanowski, who faces multiple criminal charges including embezzlement, fled to Hungary after a Polish court ordered his detention. His asylum has sparked speculation about potential further asylum cases involving other Polish politicians implicated in corruption.
The situation reflects a broader context of political tensions in the region, with Hungary's asylum policies increasingly under scrutiny for potentially harboring individuals facing legal challenges in their home countries.