How did the partitions of Poland weaken cooperation between Prussia and Austria?

The partitions of Poland did not necessarily weaken cooperation between Prussia and Austria; rather, they often served as a mechanism to manage their competitive interests and prevent direct conflict between them.

Historically, the relationship between Prussia and Austria was defined by intense rivalry, particularly regarding the balance of power in central Europe and the struggle for dominance within the Holy Roman Empire. During the 18th century, Prussia sought to expand its influence at the expense of the Habsburgs, while Austria aimed to check Prussian growth.1

The partitions of Poland functioned as a diplomatic tool to resolve these tensions:

• Avoiding Conflict: When Austria and Russia were on the brink of war over Ottoman territories, Prussia proposed partitioning Poland as a way to provide "mutually agreeable compensations" to all three powers, thereby calming Austro-Russian relations and preventing a wider escalation.23
• Dynastic Interests: Both powers prioritized their own dynastic expansion over broader national or German interests. By participating in the partitions, they could secure territorial gains—such as Austria’s acquisition of Galicia—without engaging in a direct, costly war against each other.21

While these actions were driven by self-interest, the partitions effectively channeled the expansionist ambitions of Prussia, Russia, and Austria toward a common target, temporarily aligning their interests at the expense of Polish sovereignty.21