Polish Interior Minister Tomasz Siemoniak has announced a “silent war” with Hungary following its decision to grant asylum to former Deputy Justice Minister Marcin Romanowski. Hungary cited alleged violations of Romanowski’s rights by Polish authorities as justification for its decision. Siemoniak criticized the move, calling it an “escape from Polish justice,” and highlighted that the case was deemed criminal, not political, by the Council of Europe.
Polish Response to Hungary’s Actions
Siemoniak expressed concern over Hungary’s disregard for European legal standards, including the European Arrest Warrant, emphasizing this decision’s broader implications beyond Romanowski’s case. The minister assured that Romanowski would eventually face Polish justice, stressing that Budapest’s actions undermine EU legal cooperation.
Poland is now considering countermeasures, including halting extraditions of Hungarian citizens suspected of crimes. Siemoniak hinted at broader repercussions for Hungary’s interests in Poland, signaling a significant strain in Polish-Hungarian relations.
Asked whether this marks the start of a “silent war” within the EU, Siemoniak affirmed, attributing the situation to Hungary’s choices. He urged Hungary to reconsider its actions to preserve regional cooperation.