BUDAPEST, Hungary — Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán announced Tuesday that the government has ordered 10 members of Russia’s diplomatic mission to depart the country, alleging their conduct violated international standards. Orbán declined to provide specific details regarding the nature of the infractions or the deadline for the diplomats to leave.
“According to the assessment of the Hungarian authorities, 10 members of the Russian mission had engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention,” Orbán stated, referencing the global treaty that regulates diplomatic conduct.
The expulsion marks a significant shift in Budapest’s foreign policy under Prime Minister Peter Magyar, who assumed office earlier this year with a pledge to dismantle the pro-Russian strategies of his predecessor, Viktor Orbán. The former prime minister was known for maintaining close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin and frequently obstructed European Union sanctions against Moscow.
In a statement emphasizing the strategic importance of the move, Orbán wrote, “This decision protects Hungary’s security and sovereignty.” She clarified that the action does not constitute a severing of diplomatic ties, adding that Hungary intends to maintain necessary dialogue with Moscow based on mutual respect and adherence to international rules.
Finally some backbone from Budapest. Hope Magyar follows through and doesn’t backtrack under pressure.
It’s interesting they cited the Vienna Convention. Does that set a legal precedent for future expulsions?
I wonder if this genuine change in policy or just Hungary performing for the EU again?
Wow, talk about a dramatic pivot! Expelling ten diplomats is no small gesture.