Hungary and Ukraine in diplomatic standoff over spy claims
Hungary has decided to expel two Ukrainian diplomats, accusing them of espionage. In response, the Ukrainian Foreign Minister has announced that two Hungarian diplomats must leave Ukraine within 48 hours.
What do you need to know?
- Hungary expels two Ukrainian diplomats: The announcement was made by Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Peter Szijjarto, who accused the diplomats of espionage.
- Discovery of a Hungarian spy network: Ukrainian security services have reported dismantling a spy network that was operating in Transcarpathia.
- Prompt reaction: Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, has informed that in response, two Hungarian diplomats are to leave Ukraine.
Why did Hungary expel the diplomats?
On Friday, Hungary decided to expel two Ukrainian diplomats, accusing them of espionage. Hungary’s Foreign Minister, Peter Szijjarto, revealed in a Facebook video that the diplomats were working undercover at the Ukrainian embassy in Budapest. An official diplomatic note has already been delivered to the Ukrainian ambassador in Budapest.
Is Hungary conducting espionage activities in Ukraine?
The Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) has announced the disruption of a Hungarian spy network operating in Transcarpathia. Szijjarto addressed these reports, emphasising that Hungary does not wish to be drawn into the conflict and does not supply weapons to Ukraine. He noted that Ukraine's actions are retaliatory amid an ongoing referendum in Hungary regarding Ukraine's potential accession to the EU. Simultaneously, he did not refute the information regarding Hungarian espionage activities in Ukraine.
Immediate reaction from Ukraine: Two Hungarians expelled
In response to Budapest's decision, Ukraine's Foreign Minister announced the expulsion of two Hungarian diplomats.
"Two Hungarian diplomats must leave our country within 48 hours. We have just summoned Hungarian Ambassador to @MFA_Ukraine and presented him with the relevant note. We are acting in response to Hungary’s actions, based on the principle of reciprocity and our national interests," explained Andrii Sybiha.
