Ukraine’s SBU security agency announced on Friday that it had uncovered a Hungarian-run spy network operating within its borders, marking what it described as the first known instance of Hungarian espionage against Kyiv.
In a statement, the SBU said two individuals had been detained on suspicion of acting as agents for Hungarian military intelligence. Both suspects are former members of the Ukrainian military and were allegedly recruited by a Hungarian handler who provided them with cash and specialised communication equipment.
According to the SBU, the agents were gathering sensitive information about Ukraine’s air defence systems and military capabilities in the Transcarpathia region, a strategically significant area bordering Hungary.
SBU said it was the first time in Ukraine’s history that a spy network managed by the Hungarian state had been exposed, adding that the case posed serious concerns for national security.
There has been no official comment from the Hungarian government in response to the allegations.
While Hungary is a member of both the European Union and NATO—alliances closely aligned with Ukraine—relations between the two countries have long been strained. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has consistently voiced scepticism about Western military support for Ukraine and has maintained ties with Russian President Vladimir Putin, diverging from most EU leaders who have sought to isolate Moscow following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
The investigation into the suspected espionage network is ongoing, with Ukrainian authorities promising to take all necessary measures to prevent further breaches of national defence.
Melissa Enoch
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