The government of Hungary has ordered 10 members of the Russian diplomatic mission to leave the country due to activities that Budapest deemed incompatible with their diplomatic status. This was announced on September 8 by Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Orbán.
Anita Orbán stated that members of the Russian mission were engaged in activities that are “unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention.” According to her, this decision is aimed at “protecting the security and sovereignty of Hungary.”
A shift in foreign policy
This expulsion marks a sharp turn in Budapest‘s approach to Moscow following the rise to power of the government led by Péter Magyar earlier this year, which replaced the administration of former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, known for his pro-Russia stance. Anita Orbán noted that this decision does not mean a break in diplomatic relations, as Hungary intends to continue dialogue with Moscow with respect and adherence to established rules.
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia Maria Zakharova stated that Moscow‘s response to the expulsion of the diplomats will be “harsh and painful.” Meanwhile, Budapest labeled Russia a “threat to Europe and the global order” in guidelines for its delegation to the United Nations General Assembly in September.
Relations with Ukraine
The current government of Hungary maintains a more pro-European stance than its predecessor and is taking steps to restore relations with Kyiv. Budapest links this process to the protection of the rights of Hungarians in Transcarpathia, and both sides have taken a series of conciliatory steps in recent weeks.
Minister of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine Andrii Sybiha called the decision to expel the Russian diplomats “very timely and wise,” adding that it will “strengthen Hungary’s security.”
Source: Kyiv Independent
