Did they see it as an example of the failings of Catholicism? Were the new Protestants allies against the Catholic church or a threat against the true church? Did they even care about the religious wars of Northern Europe, or were they more concerned with local matters?
I answered a similar question some time ago, that may be pertinent.
Basically there was some initial interest from the Orthodox, but as the Reformation picked up steam and showed that it wasn't headed in a theological direction that was going to lead to reparation with the Orthodox, they became less interested.
I can't comment on broad political developments through the era though, it's too far from my knowledge base.