Hungary: Budapest Expels 10 Russian Diplomats Over Security Concerns
Hungary has expelled 10 Russian diplomats, accusing them of activities that were incompatible with diplomatic status. The move represents a significant shift in Budapest’s approach to relations with Moscow.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán said the diplomats had been involved in activities considered unacceptable under the Vienna Convention. She stressed, however, that the decision does not mean Hungary is breaking diplomatic relations with Russia and that Budapest intends to maintain necessary dialogue.
The expulsions mark a notable change from the policy pursued by former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who maintained close relations with Russian President Vladimir Putin during his long period in office. Hungary had previously been reluctant to expel Russian diplomats following the invasion of Ukraine.
Prime Minister Péter Magyar’s government has repeatedly said that Hungary’s main strategic alliances are with the European Union and NATO. Officials have also said Russia will remain an important partner but that the relationship cannot be based on one-sided dependence.
The diplomatic dispute comes as Hungary is also seeking closer coordination with other Central European countries. At a recent Visegrad Group meeting, Hungary, Poland, the Czech Republic and Slovakia agreed to coordinate positions on EU budget negotiations, competitiveness and the energy crisis.
Meanwhile, Hungary’s economy continues to show signs of recovery. Official data show that GDP expanded 1.7% year-on-year in the second quarter of 2026, while industrial production rose 4.7% in July.
The expulsion of the Russian diplomats could therefore become an important signal of Hungary’s changing foreign-policy direction under its new government.
