Ukraine Arrests Two Hungarians in Alleged Espionage Plot: What You Need to Know

Ukraine recently revealed that it has uncovered a spy network allegedly operated by Hungary, aimed at gathering intelligence about Ukraine’s defenses along their shared border. Ukraine’s security service reported the detention of two individuals accused of spying.

This is the first time Ukraine’s Security Service has identified a military intelligence network from Hungary engaged in espionage activities detrimental to Ukraine. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto responded cautiously, suggesting that these allegations might be propaganda until he receives more concrete details.

He highlighted a pattern of anti-Hungarian sentiment in Ukraine, which sometimes lacks factual backing. While he did not outright deny the charges, he noted that Hungary had not yet received any official communication from Ukraine.

Relations between Hungary and Ukraine have been rocky, especially since Russia’s invasion began over three years ago. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has consistently shown support for Russia, even attempting to block EU aid to Ukraine and opposing sanctions on Russian energy. Hungary’s ties to NATO have become complex under Orban’s leadership, as his administration often diverges from Western alliances.

The alleged spy network aimed to collect data on air defense systems and even gauge local public sentiment about a potential Hungarian incursion. Reports indicate that the detainees were former Ukrainian military members allegedly supervised by a Hungarian intelligence officer.

Former UK Defence Secretary Sir Ben Wallace remarked that Ukraine has previously accused Hungary of similar acts. He emphasized the seriousness of this situation, given the sensitive nature of the information involved. Wallace also raised concerns about where this intelligence would ultimately end up.

Interestingly, Ukraine and Hungary share an 84-mile border, and about 150,000 ethnic Hungarians live in Ukraine’s Zakarpattia region. Historically, there have been tensions over the rights of this community. Wallace recalled past incidents where Hungary was accused of attempting to extend influence in that region, including distributing passports to ethnic Hungarians.

As this news unfolds, it adds another layer of complexity to NATO’s efforts to remain united against Russia’s ongoing aggression. The latest allegations could potentially deepen divisions within the alliance as it faces external threats.

For more on NATO’s challenges and Hungary’s position, you can read this BBC report.

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