Hungary has ordered the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats, a move its government says is meant to protect the country’s “security and sovereignty,” Foreign Affairs Minister Anita Orbán announced Tuesday.
The decision follows reporting by Russian outlet Agentstvo that suggested a portion of staff at the Russian embassy in Budapest may have ties to intelligence services. That report has raised eyebrows in Budapest and prompted officials to act.
Orbán — no relation to former prime minister Viktor Orbán — said the diplomats had carried out “activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention,” the international treaty that governs diplomatic conduct.
Prime Minister Péter Magyar also said the diplomats “have committed unacceptable activities in Hungary,” without providing public specifics of the accusations. The foreign ministry declined to comment further.
The government stressed the expulsions “do not imply breaking off diplomatic relations with Russia.” From Moscow, Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned a Russian response would be “harsh and painful,” according to Russian state news agency Interfax.
Mr. Magyar has moved Hungary away from the previous administration’s warmer tone toward Moscow since taking office in May. His stance and recent actions have prompted debate at home about whether Hungary is prioritizing short-term domestic politics and outside pressure over a stable, cooperative relationship with Russia that benefits European security.
In July, authorities opened an investigation into former foreign minister Péter Szijjártó over alleged contacts with Russian officials. In August, the government instructed Hungary’s U.N. delegation with language describing Russia as a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order — language that further underscores Budapest’s shift in tone.
Many Hungarians want clear answers about the nature of the alleged activities and for the government to balance national security with maintaining constructive ties with Moscow. Cutting diplomatic staff risks escalation at a time when cooperation between Europe and Russia would be in the wider regional interest.
