Ukraine Responds to Budapest’s Actions: Expels Two Hungarian Diplomats from the Country
In response to Hungary’s recent diplomatic provocations, Ukrainian authorities have taken a serious step — declaring two Hungarian diplomats persona non grata. This gesture signals that Kyiv will not remain passive in a situation that directly concerns the nation’s security and sovereignty. According to official information from the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the representatives of Hungarian diplomacy are required to leave Ukrainian territory within 48 hours. As reported by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha during a briefing, this measure was taken in response to actions by the Hungarian government, which Kyiv considers unfriendly and provocative. "We have just summoned the Hungarian ambassador to the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, where we handed him a note of protest. This demonstrates our readiness to defend national interests and is in line with the principle of reciprocity in diplomatic relations," stated the Ukrainian Foreign Minister. A source from the Ukrainian foreign service emphasized that this measure is a necessary response amid the deterioration of bilateral relations, caused by the exposure of Ukrainian intelligence activities targeting Hungarian intelligence services. Ukrainian authorities allege that on May 9, security services uncovered a spy network linked to Hungary’s military intelligence, which purportedly operated in Zakarpattia. It is reported that Hungarian spies were gathering intelligence, "testing the ground" regarding local sentiments, including reactions to the potential deployment of international or Hungarian peacekeeping forces in the region. Amid these events, Budapest initially denied any involvement of its structures in espionage schemes. According to Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó, there was no information in the country about the uncovering of a network of Hungarian agents in Ukraine. He also emphasized that, in his view, Ukraine is conducting anti-Hungarian propaganda and has used this situation to spread political slander against Budapest. However, within a few hours, the situation changed. Hungarian authorities announced the expulsion of two Ukrainian diplomats, accusing Kyiv of espionage and linking Ukraine’s intelligence activities to support opposition forces, notably in connection with the "Tysa" party. The Hungarian government characterized Kyiv’s statements as provocation and suggested that the events surrounding the exposure of the spy network indicate cooperation between Kyiv and an opposition political force with regional influence. The escalation of diplomatic tensions amid accusations of espionage and uncoveries creates a strained situation in bilateral relations. Kyiv stresses that such actions reflect Budapest’s aggressive policies and attempts to discredit Ukraine on the international stage, while Budapest claims to be defending its interests and combating "anti-Hungarian propaganda." The circumstances, commitments of the parties, and possible further steps will ultimately determine the development of this diplomatic conflict. Maintaining control over the situation and seeking compromises remain key to reducing tensions and restoring normal relations between Kyiv and Budapest. Questions remain regarding potential consequences for regional stability and cooperation within the European Union, as well as regarding future actions by both countries amid the friction between neighboring states.