Hungarian PM Peter Magyar confirmed that 10 Russian diplomats were being expelled in an address to the National Assembly in Budapest on Tuesday – as Moscow slammed ‘Russophobia’ in the country.
“Today, I instructed the relevant head of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to inform the Russian ambassador in Budapest that, according to the assessment of the Hungarian authorities, 10 employees of the Russian representation engaged in activities in Hungary which are not acceptable for diplomats based on the Vienna Convention,” he said.
He added that it did ‘not imply’ that there would be “any interruption of diplomatic relations with Russia”
“Hungary still intends to maintain the necessary dialogue and mutual respect while adhering to the rules,” he added. “Unlike your administration, we do not tolerate anyone endangering Hungary’s sovereignty, Hungary’s liberty, and independence, and if necessary, we will use diplomatic means to protect Hungary’s independence and sovereignty,” he said, in a swipe at the opposition.
Foreign Minister Anita Orban also earlier claimed the diplomats had been “engaged in activities unacceptable for diplomats according to the Vienna Convention”.
Neither the PM or the FM explained exactly what the diplomats were accused of doing.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the response “will be harsh and painful” – and called the latest move the work of the “Russophobic lobby in Budapest”.
Source: Viory
