Hungary has expelled 10 members of Russia’s diplomatic mission, saying their activities were “incompatible with their diplomatic status” under the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The decision marks a sharp shift in Budapest’s approach to Moscow and signals a recalibration of Hungary’s foreign policy under its new leadership.
Foreign Minister Anita Orbán announced the expulsions but did not disclose details of the alleged activities or specify when the diplomats must depart. She informed Russia’s ambassador that Hungarian authorities had assessed the conduct of the personnel as unacceptable for accredited diplomats, who are required to respect local laws and avoid interference in internal affairs.
The move is significant because Prime Minister Peter Magyar, who took office earlier this year, has pledged to steer Hungary away from the pro‑Russia stance associated with former PM Viktor Orbán. Magyar has emphasised strengthening ties with the EU and NATO, and the expulsions are widely seen as part of that strategic realignment.
Hungary’s decision comes amid heightened tensions between Europe and Russia, with several EU states tightening scrutiny of Russian diplomatic activity. While Budapest had previously resisted such measures, the latest action suggests a growing willingness to align with broader European security concerns.