Moscow threatens ‘painful’ retaliation after Hungary expels 10 Russian diplomats

Hungary on Tuesday ordered 10 Russian diplomats to leave the country over “unacceptable activities” it said were incompatible with their diplomatic status. The move prompted Moscow to threaten a “harsh and painful” retaliation, marking a significant shift in Budapest’s approach to Russia.Hungarian foreign minister Anita Orbán said the Russian ambassador had been informed that the 10 diplomats had “engaged in activities in Hungary that are unacceptable for diplomats under the Vienna Convention”.Orbán, who is not related to former prime minister Viktor Orbán, did not disclose the specific activities or give a deadline for their departure. She stressed, however, that Budapest was not seeking to sever ties with Moscow.“This decision protects Hungary’s security and sovereignty,” Orbán said. “It does not imply breaking off diplomatic relations with Russia.