Hungary expels 10 Russian diplomats as relations with Kremlin worsen

Image source, AFP via Getty Images Image caption, Russia has promised a 'harsh and painful' response to the expulsions

Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán says 10 Russian diplomats have been ordered to leave Budapest for taking part in "unacceptable" activities.

"This decision protects Hungary's security and sovereignty," she wrote on social media, without giving details.

Hungary was viewed as Russia's closest ally in the European Union under Viktor Orbán for years, but since his election defeat in April the new government has pivoted away from his pro-Kremlin stance.

The Hungarian foreign minister said the decision to expel the diplomats "does not imply breaking off diplomatic relations with Russia", but the foreign ministry spokeswoman in Moscow said "the response to the Russophobic lobby will be harsh and painful".