Hungary Expels 10 Russian Diplomats Over Activities

Hungary has expelled ten Russian diplomats from Budapest, citing activities deemed incompatible with their diplomatic status under the Vienna Convention. The decision, announced Tuesday, September 8, 2026, by Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orban, marks an unprecedented move in scale for the country. According to Orban, Hungarian authorities assessed that the ten members of the Russian diplomatic mission had engaged in activities unacceptable for diplomats. The minister stated that the decision was made to protect Hungary's security and sovereignty. However, she emphasized that the expulsions do not signify a break in diplomatic relations with Moscow, and Hungary intends to maintain necessary dialogue based on mutual respect and adherence to international rules. The Russian ambassador to Budapest was informed of the decision. In response, Russia vowed retaliation. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that the response to what she termed the "Russophobic lobby in Budapest" would be "harsh and painful.