Hungary expels 10 Russian diplomats as relations worsen

Foreign Minister Anita Orbán announced the expulsions on social media, stating the decision protects Hungary's security and sovereignty, though she provided no further details about the diplomats' alleged activities.

The move marks a significant shift for Hungary, which under former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán was viewed as Russia's closest ally within the European Union. Since his party's election defeat in April, the new government led by Prime Minister Péter Magyar has steadily distanced itself from Moscow.

In May, Anita Orbán summoned the Russian ambassador to protest a major drone attack on Ukraine's Transcarpathia region, which is home to a large Hungarian minority. Commentators noted that her predecessor had not summoned the ambassador since Russia's full-scale invasion began in 2022.

Last month, Magyar formally broke with the previous Fidesz government's policies, issuing new guidelines stating that Russia's conduct in Ukraine poses a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order, and endangers the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia.

The foreign minister said the expulsions do not imply a complete break in diplomatic relations. However, Russia's foreign ministry spokeswoman in Moscow promised the response to what she called the 'Russophobic lobby' would be 'harsh and painful'. Russia's Ambassador to Budapest, Evgeny Stanislavov, reacted bitterly to the Hungarian government's stated intention to continue dialogue based on mutual respect.

Magyar has repeatedly called on Russia to end the war in Ukraine, describing his approach as seeking 'pragmatic' relations with Moscow.

Why This Matters

The expulsions end Hungary's status as Russia's primary EU ally, potentially tightening the bloc's consensus on sanctions and Ukraine policy.
The shift reflects a broader electoral rebuke of pro-Kremlin politics in Central Europe, with implications for European security dynamics.
Hungary's large ethnic Hungarian minority in western Ukraine could become a flashpoint if tensions with Moscow escalate further.

Background

Under Viktor Orbán's Fidesz government, Hungary consistently blocked or watered down EU sanctions on Russia, maintained close energy ties, and opposed military aid to Ukraine. This stance isolated Budapest within NATO and the EU. After Orbán's surprise election loss in April 2026 to Péter Magyar's Tisza party, the new government began signalling a realignment. Magyar promised 'pragmatic' relations with Russia while demanding an end to the war. The expulsion of diplomats follows earlier diplomatic protests over Russian drone strikes near Hungary's border.

Key Perspectives

Hungary's government: Argues the expulsions are a necessary security measure to protect sovereignty, and represent a principled stance against unacceptable foreign interference and Russia's war in Ukraine. Russia's government: Views the action as a hostile, Russophobic move driven by a pro-Western lobby, and has promised a harsh response while not yet specifying retaliatory measures. Critics and observers: Some may argue the expulsions are long overdue, while others warn that Hungary is burning bridges without securing its energy dependence on Russia, risking economic retaliation.

What to Watch

Russia's actual retaliatory response — whether it involves expelling Hungarian diplomats, cutting energy supplies, or other punitive measures.
Further Hungarian steps to align fully with EU sanctions and NATO defence planning, including potential military aid to Ukraine.
Impact on the Hungarian minority in Transcarpathia, which Russia could leverage as a pressure point.

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