Poland recalled its ambassador to Budapest indefinitely after Hungary granted asylum to Marcin Romanowski, a former Polish justice minister. The decision, announced Friday, followed a day of escalating tensions between the two countries.
Polish authorities had earlier summoned Hungary’s ambassador to Warsaw in protest. Poland’s Foreign Ministry labeled Hungary’s move “offensive to Polish citizens and authorities,” further straining relations between the allies.
Romanowski Faces Legal Troubles in Poland
Romanowski, a current Law and Justice Party (PiS) lawmaker, is wanted in Poland for alleged corruption and misuse of public funds. A Polish court had approved his pre-trial detention last week, prompting prosecutors to issue a European arrest warrant.
Polish police searched for Romanowski unsuccessfully, with evidence emerging that he had fled abroad. On Thursday, Hungary announced it was granting him political asylum, a decision that further angered Warsaw.
Tusk Warns Against Hungary’s Decision
Hours before the asylum announcement, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk warned Hungary against actions violating European law. “Should Budapest take odd decisions, such as granting asylum or ignoring the European arrest warrant, Viktor Orbán would face consequences, not me,” Tusk said.
Hungary’s decision to provide asylum marks a rare diplomatic rift between the two nations, traditionally close allies within the EU. The fallout could have broader implications for European legal cooperation and the already tense relationship between Warsaw and Budapest.