This article investigates emotionally based solidarity appeals in the Facebook posts
from Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki (Poland) and Prime Minister Viktor Orbán (Hungary)
published in the first weeks of Russia’s military invasion of Ukraine, between February
24 and April 9, 2022. Our approach involves a qualitative thematic analysis to uncover
the political strategies used to either foster or diminish a collective sense of sympathy.
The findings reveal a striking disparity between the two countries. Prime Minister
Morawiecki’s rhetoric strongly emphasizes sympathetic solidarity, establishing a close
and emotional bond with Ukraine. He extends his support to the attacked country, including
the provision of weapons and diplomatic services, while openly expressing hostility
toward Russia. In contrast, Prime Minister Orbán’s posts, despite mentioning humanitarian
efforts coordinated by his government, notably lack appeals for sympathy. Based on
the comparison of the two countries, our study emphasizes the significance of nuanced
moral language for political agenda in times of crisis.
