Budapest expels Russian envoys, Kremlin threatens harsh retaliation
Hungary has expelled ten Russian diplomats for actions deemed incompatible with their diplomatic status, signaling a departure from its previous pro-Russian stance. Russia's foreign ministry responded by vowing a painful retaliation against what it called a Russophobic lobby in Budapest. The move follows the ousting of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who had maintained close ties with Moscow.
Budapest ordered ten Russian envoys to leave, citing conduct incompatible with standard diplomatic behavior. Moscow's foreign ministry spokesperson, Maria Zakharova, promised a severe and punishing response aimed at what she described as an anti-Russian lobby in the Hungarian capital.
This action sharply contrasts with the era of Viktor Orban, who was removed from power in April after sixteen years. He had preserved close ties with Moscow, continued buying Russian energy, blocked EU sanctions, and delayed a €90 billion loan for Ukraine. Hungary had not publicly expelled Russian diplomats since 2018.
This diplomatic rupture could affect Hungarian energy security, given the country's historical reliance on Russian oil and gas. It may also signal a broader realignment of Budapest's foreign policy, potentially strengthening EU cohesion on Ukraine. Conversely, Moscow's promised retaliation might target Hungarian economic interests or diplomatic personnel, creating uncertainty for businesses and citizens with ties to Russia. The shift could influence regional stability and the balance of power in Eastern Europe.