Hungary has expelled Russian diplomat Artur Sushkov, identified as an officer of the Russian Foreign Intelligence Service, due to activities deemed incompatible with his diplomatic status. Sushkov, a third secretary at the Russian embassy, was ordered to leave Budapest on May 4, 2026.
The Hungarian authorities recognized Sushkov as an undercover agent involved in recruiting informants and gathering intelligence from pro-government analytical centers. His expulsion was initially proposed in February 2026; however, the government of former Prime Minister Viktor Orbán blocked the action for political reasons during the election campaign.
Following Orbán’s electoral defeat, the political obstacles to counterintelligence operations were removed, allowing the expulsion to proceed. Investigations revealed that Sushkov targeted institutions close to Orbán’s political director, including the Mathias Corvinus Collegium and the Hungarian Institute of International Relations.
His efforts focused on obtaining sensitive information regarding Hungary’s domestic policies, plans for the Paks II nuclear power plant, and the country’s relations with Ukraine. Sushkov reportedly employed expensive gifts and promises of financial rewards to recruit individuals willing to share classified documents.
Additionally, the investigation uncovered audio recordings suggesting coordination between Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov aimed at obstructing Ukraine’s EU accession.
Despite Sushkov’s expulsion, numerous identified intelligence officers under diplomatic cover remain at the Russian embassy in Budapest. Experts note that the previous Hungarian administration often softened measures against Russian spies, making the country a favorable location for hostile operations targeting NATO and Schengen zone nations.
Hungary has expelled a Russian diplomat linked to espionage, revealing ongoing concerns about Russian intelligence activities in the country. Despite this action, many Russian operatives remain in Hungary, raising questions about the effectiveness of counterintelligence measures.