Russia expels Hungarian diplomats in retaliation for Budapest's expulsion of Russian staff

On October 1, 2026, Russia ordered Hungarian diplomats to leave within two weeks in retaliation for Hungary's expulsion of 10 Russian diplomats in September. The Hungarian Foreign Ministry acknowledged the decision but said it stands by its original action. This diplomatic row reflects a shift in Hungary's foreign policy under new Prime Minister Péter Magyar, who has moved the country closer to the EU and NATO and away from the pro-Russian stance of former leader Viktor Orbán.