Hungary has ordered ten Russian diplomats to leave the country, citing activities that the government described as incompatible with their diplomatic status. Anita Orban, the deputy prime minister and foreign minister, announced the decision on Tuesday, emphasizing that the move was necessary to safeguard Hungary’s security and sovereignty.
Orban clarified that the expulsion does not signal a termination of diplomatic relations with Russia. The action represents a notable pivot for the Central European nation, which under the previous administration maintained close ties with Moscow following its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
In response, the Russian Foreign Ministry vowed a “harsh and painful” reaction. Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova communicated this stance to the TASS news agency, indicating that Budapest’s move would not go unanswered.
The decision diverges from the policy of Hungary’s former leadership. Former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who concluded a 16-year tenure after losing the April elections, reportedly maintained strong personal connections with Russian President Vladimir Putin. During a phone call last year, Viktor Orban is said to have told Putin, “I am at your service.”
European Union officials acknowledged the expulsion as a “legitimate decision.” EU spokesman Christian Wigand stated that Brussels would continue to closely coordinate with Hungary regarding the situation. While many EU member states have previously expelled Russian diplomats in response to the war in Ukraine, Hungary had resisted doing so until now.
Moscow promising a ‘harsh reaction’ usually means minor sanctions nobody actually feels. Just more theater.
A shift in policy, yes, but is it enough to counteract sixteen years of Kremlin-friendly diplomacy?
I’m surprised they acted this quickly after the election. The geopolitical pressure must be mounting significantly.
Does ‘continued dialogue’ just mean they’ll keep selling us gas while pretending to condemn Russia?
Finally, Hungary is aligning with the rest of Europe. It about time they took a stand.