Hungary expels 10 Russian diplomats: Budapest explains the reason

Hungary has decided to expel 10 Russian diplomats from the country due to activities that the Hungarian side considers “unacceptable” in accordance with the Vienna Convention.

Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orban announced this.

According to her, on Tuesday, a representative of the Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the Russian ambassador of the decision following an assessment conducted by the country’s competent authorities.

“Ten members of the Russian mission were engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention. Therefore, the Hungarian side called on these individuals to leave Hungary,” Orbán stated.

The minister emphasized that the decision is aimed at protecting Hungary’s security and sovereignty. Budapest emphasized that the expulsion of diplomats does not mean the severing of diplomatic relations with Russia.

“Hungary intends to continue the necessary dialogue based on mutual respect and adherence to rules,” Orbán noted.

Hungary previously formally recognized Russia as a threat and reaffirmed its support for Ukraine’s territorial integrity.

The corresponding directive, signed by Prime Minister Péter Magyar, called Russia a threat to Hungary, Europe and the world order, as well as to the Hungarians of Transcarpathia.

The document also contains condemnation of Russian military aggression against Ukraine, support for Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity, and a call for negotiations to achieve sustainable peace and security guarantees.