Poland has firmly aligned with Ukraine, grounded in a keen grasp of Russia’s strategic posture. This stance also informs efforts to reduce Hungary’s dependence on Russian energy, a topic discussed by Sebastian Kęciek, the Polish Ambassador to Budapest, during a lecture at the National University of Public Service in Budapest as part of the Ludovika Ambassadors’ Forum.
The ambassador began by recalling remarks attributed to Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki at Heidelberg University, where he suggested that a generation of young Europeans faced a decisive choice between freedom and Soviet domination. Sovereignty for some, imperial reach for others. The presentation emphasized two paths: a free, open Europe and, at times, a framework shaped by coercion reminiscent of past totalitarian regimes.
Kęciek reminded the Hungarian audience that February 24, 2022, marked a new geopolitical reality guiding ongoing actions and objectives. He underscored that a central aim of Polish foreign policy has been to support Ukraine, noting that this stance aligns with shared regional interests and the broader security framework affecting Central and Eastern Europe.
The ambassador highlighted that Hungarians are well acquainted with Russia, evoking memories of the 1956 Hungarian uprising and the enduring history of resilience against external pressure.
Armed aggression against Ukraine reflects Putin’s imperial aims
The Polish representative traced the evolution of Russia’s policy leading to the invasion of Ukraine, framing the move as part of a long-running pattern of imperial ambition. The discussion suggested that such aggression extends beyond Ukraine and echoes historical patterns observed in other conflicts from years past.
Attention was directed to energy security in relation to the war in Ukraine, a critical concern for Hungary due to its reliance on Russian energy. The dialogue touched on strategic projects like the Baltic Pipe gas pipeline, LNG imports, and additional interconnectors designed to diversify energy sources and reduce dependence on a single supplier. These developments are presented as possible avenues to broaden Hungary’s energy options and strengthen regional resilience across the European energy network.
Despite differing approaches to the war in Ukraine, Polish diplomacy continues to advocate for an active strategy that strengthens regional security and invites Hungary to participate more meaningfully in diversifying energy resources. The ambassador spoke with the press after the lecture about the potential benefits of closer cooperation with Poland, including existing connections and planned investments such as the terminal project planned in the Gulf of Gdańsk.
Hungary is viewed as a geographically and strategically important partner for Europe’s ongoing realignment. The ambassador described the bilateral relationship as dynamic, sometimes rising and falling, yet always capable of resurgence. He expressed optimism for a new opening in the period ahead, emphasizing the value of sustained dialogue and collaboration on shared interests.
The post-lecture discussion included insights from Ivan Gyurcsik, a former Hungarian ambassador to Poland, and Miklós Mitrovits, a respected historian and Polish scholar. Diplomatic representatives from several countries attended the event. The Ludovika Ambassadors’ Forum, organized by the National University of Public Service in Budapest, serves as a platform for mission heads to present their nations’ policies and perspectives on regional affairs.
In related coverage, observers noted ongoing conversations about NATO and EU alignment, with particular attention to Hungary’s role in regional security and its stance on broader alliance decisions. The discussion reflected the complexity of how national energy strategies intersect with geopolitical alignments, as well as the importance of maintaining constructive diplomacy amid differing regional approaches.
Overall, the dialogue underscored how security, energy resilience, and political cooperation in Central Europe are deeply interconnected. It highlighted how Poland’s approach toward Ukraine and its energy diversification agenda could influence neighboring countries while reinforcing regional stability and shared interests.