Hungary summoned the Russian ambassador for the first time since the full-scale war because of the attack on Transcarpathia. Foreign Minister Anita Orban will meet with the Russian representative on Thursday, 14 May, at 11:30 am.
Hungarian diplomacy is changing its approach
Pros. information Hungarian prime minister Peter Magyar, Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Orban summoned the Russian ambassador after the drone attack in Zakarpattia. This is the first such step by Budapest since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The meeting is scheduled for Thursday, 14 May, at 11:30 am.
Earlier, the previous head of the Hungarian Foreign Ministry Peter Siyarto did not take such actions even after missile and drone attacks on Ukrainian regions bordering Hungary. This approach has been repeatedly criticised by independent Hungarian media, emphasising the passivity of official Budapest.
Public and media reaction
The summons of the Russian ambassador was a notable event for Hungarian politics and media. Independent publications have repeatedly pointed out that the government's previous position did not meet the expectations of a part of society, including the Hungarian community in Transcarpathia. The lack of an official response to Russian attacks has previously raised questions about Budapest's real attitude to the safety of its compatriots abroad.
The next step Anita Orban could signal a change in Hungary's foreign policy line on the war in Ukraine.
The context of the drone attack on Transcarpathia
Transcarpathia, home to a large Hungarian minority, has repeatedly been the target of Russian attacks. The latest incident involving drones has raised questions about the safety of not only Ukrainian citizens, but also Hungarians in Zakarpattia. This, in turn, increased pressure on the Hungarian authorities from the opposition and civil society organisations.
Budapest's position on the war in Ukraine has traditionally been characterised by caution and a desire to avoid direct confrontation with Moscow. However, the current situation may force the government to rebalance its foreign policy interests and protect its compatriots.
Why it matters
For the first time during the full-scale war, Hungary has decided to officially protest to Russia over the attack on Transcarpathia. This could mark the beginning of a new phase in relations between Budapest and Moscow and affect regional security.
