Hungary has demanded that 10 individuals serving at the Russian mission in Budapest depart the country, alleging they engaged in activities deemed "unacceptable" under the Vienna Convention. The decision was announced by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Orban in a post on X.
"Acting on my instructions, on Tuesday the relevant official from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs informed the Russian ambassador to Hungary that, according to the assessment of the Hungarian authorities, 10 members of the Russian mission had engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention," Orban stated. "The Hungarian side has therefore called on the individuals in question to leave Hungary."
Despite the expulsions, Hungary does not intend to sever diplomatic relations with Russia. "This decision protects Hungary’s security and sovereignty. It does not imply breaking off diplomatic relations with Russia. Hungary intends to continue the necessary dialogue, based on mutual respect and adherence to the rules," Orban added.
The Russian Foreign Ministry responded by vowing to provide "an appropriate response" to the expulsions, according to Russia’s state news agency RIA Novosti.
The European Commission acknowledged Hungary's decision. Spokesperson Christian Wigand stated, "we take note of Hungary’s legitimate decision." Wigand characterized the move as an expected response to "Russia’s persistent campaign in using hybrid attacks against the EU and its member states."
Hungary is a member of both the European Union and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). The United States is a founding member of NATO.