[Brief] Hungary Expels 10 Russian Diplomats as Bilateral Relations Worsen
[Brief] The BBC reported on September 8 that the Hungarian government has announced the expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats, accusing them of engaging in activities incompatible with their diplomatic status. The Hungarian Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement saying the expelled personnel must leave the country within the prescribed timeframe. Hungary has long been regarded as Russia’s closest ally within the EU, but the new Hungarian government has visibly shifted away from its previously pro-Kremlin stance. This expulsion is one of the largest actions against Russian diplomatic personnel by Hungary in recent years, reflecting continued deterioration in bilateral relations. Analysts noted that the new Hungarian government is recalibrating its Russia policy to align more with the broader EU position, while still seeking to maintain pragmatic cooperation with Russia in areas such as energy. ...