Russia expels Hungarian diplomats in tit-for-tat move

Russia Expels Hungarian Diplomats as Tensions Rise Over Diplomatic Row

Escalating Diplomatic Tensions Between Russia and Hungary

Background of the Diplomatic Expulsions

MOSCOW, Oct 1 (Reuters) - Russia will expel an unspecified number of Hungarian diplomats in a retaliatory move, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on Thursday, after Budapest last month expelled 10 Russian diplomats.

Details of Russia's Retaliatory Actions

"As a reciprocal measure, a group of staff members from the Hungarian Embassy in Moscow and the Hungarian Consulates General in St Petersburg and Kazan must leave the territory of the Russian Federation within two weeks," the ministry said.

Hungary's Response and Statements

The Hungarian Foreign Ministry said in a statement it acknowledged Russia's decision, adding: "Hungary is not interested in an escalation of diplomatic tension."

Underlying Causes and Political Context

Accusations and End of Pro-Russian Era

Hungary had accused the Russian diplomats it expelled of acting in ways incompatible with their status — wording often used as code for spying. The move was a clear signal that the pro-Russian era of former Prime Minister Viktor Orban is over.

Orban's Relationship with Russia

Orban, who lost power in April after 16 years in office, had kept close ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin even after Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, continuing to buy Russian oil and gas despite European Union sanctions.

New Government's Stance

New Prime Minister Peter Magyar and his centre-right government have repeatedly said that Hungary's main alliances are the European Union and NATO and that the government aims to rebuild trust eroded under Orban's rule.

Reporting Credits

(Reporting by ReutersWriting by Maxim RodionovEditing by Mark Trevelyan and Gareth Jones)