Hungary and Russia exchange expulsions of diplomats

Hungary announced the expulsion of Russian diplomats due to “unacceptable activities,” while saying it was not interested in escalating diplomatic tensions with Moscow. Russia gave a mirror response. Read more about the situation in the Lenta.ru article.

On September 8, Hungary announced the expulsion of ten Russian diplomats from the country. The corresponding statement was made by the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic, Anita Orban.

A European official accused Russian representatives of engaging in activities that are unacceptable for diplomats on Hungarian territory.

In this regard, the Hungarian side called on Russian diplomats to leave the country. According to the head of the department, this decision is aimed at “protecting the security and sovereignty of Hungary.” At the same time, the Hungarian Foreign Ministry declared its readiness to continue the necessary dialogue with Moscow, based on mutual respect and compliance with the rules.

On October 1, Moscow summoned the Charge d'Affaires of Hungary in Russia, Gabor Gergich, to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) of the Russian Federation, where a strong protest was lodged against him.

The Hungarian diplomat was also informed that, as a retaliatory measure, a group of employees of the Hungarian Embassy in Moscow and the Hungarian Consulates General in St. Petersburg and Kazan should leave Russian territory. The diplomats were given two weeks to do this.

The Hungarian Foreign Ministry stated that they took note of the Russian Federation’s actions, clarifying that they perceive them as a retaliatory measure. At the same time, the Hungarian Foreign Ministry emphasized that Budapest is not interested in escalating diplomatic tensions between the countries.

In August 2026, Hungary, in its new foreign policy after a change of government, called Russia a threat to the country, Europe and the entire world system.

“Russia’s behavior constitutes a threat to Hungary, Europe and the global order,” the Hungarian government said in a document for the country’s delegation to the UN General Assembly.

Hungary promised to take a break with the foreign policy of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who opposed tightening anti-Russian sanctions and maintained close relations with Moscow.