Hungary expels 10 Russian diplomats

Hungary has expelled 10 Russian diplomats, Foreign Minister Anita Orban confirmed on Tuesday. According to Orban, the decision followed an assessment by Hungarian authorities that staff at the Russian diplomatic mission were involved in actions not permitted by their diplomatic status and in breach of the Vienna Convention. The Russian ambassador was officially informed of the expulsions on the same day.

Orban emphasized that the move was aimed at safeguarding Hungary's security and sovereignty, and it did not signify the end of diplomatic relations with Russia. He reiterated Hungary's commitment to ongoing dialogue based on mutual respect and compliance with established rules. This development marks a significant deterioration in Hungary-Russia relations, which have been strained since a shift in government in spring 2026.

During Viktor Orban's tenure, Budapest had consistently opposed EU sanctions against Russia and criticized military support for Ukraine. His successor, Peter Magyar, has similarly refrained from providing weapons to Kyiv, though he has condemned Russian aggression and advocated for enhanced cooperation between Hungary, the EU, and NATO.

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