**Hungary Unveils Alleged Ukrainian Spies Amid Escalating Spy Scandal**
In a bid to escalate the diplomatic row with Ukraine, Hungarian government officials have unveiled two alleged Ukrainian spies. Hungarian government spokesperson Zoltan Kovacs made this announcement on social media platform X on May 20.
According to Kovacs, Hungary’s Fidesz party identified the individuals as Roland Tseber and Istvan Hollo. Tseber was allegedly an “illegal officer of Ukrainian intelligence” who sought to influence Hungary’s position on Russia’s war by building ties with opposition figures. Hollo, a Ukrainian national, is accused of seeking classified Hungarian information on energy and military policy.
This latest development follows Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) exposing a Hungarian espionage network in western Ukraine and detaining two agents earlier this month. In response to the allegations, Hungary expelled two Ukrainian diplomats, only to be met with reciprocal expulsions by Kyiv.
Ukraine has not commented on these latest allegations. However, the situation is becoming increasingly tense between the two nations.
**Hungarian Prime Minister Accuses Ukraine of Meddling**
Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orban has also weighed in on the issue. He accused Ukraine of meddling in Hungary’s internal affairs and colluding with an opposition party.
“This activity fits a classic influence operation aiming to discredit Hungary internationally and pressure the government to shift its Ukraine policy,” said Mate Kocsis, parliamentary group leader for Fidesz, as quoted by Kovacs.
This statement suggests that Hungary is not only pushing back against Ukraine’s espionage claims but also trying to portray itself as a victim of external interference.
**Escalating Tensions Between Hungary and the EU**
The espionage dispute between Hungary and Ukraine comes amidst an increasingly isolated position for Budapest within the European Union (EU). As one of Europe’s most pro-Russian leaders, Orban has been vocal in his opposition to military aid for Ukraine.
Hungary’s decision to exit the International Court of Justice could further widen the gap. This court is responsible for prosecuting international crimes such as genocide and war crimes. A government-proposed bill that would see Hungary exit this court has already garnered significant support from lawmakers.
**Global Implications**
The ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine continues to have far-reaching implications globally. The recent detention of Russian “shadow fleet” oil tankers by Estonia and its neighbors is a case in point.
Additionally, the talks between President Volodymyr Zelensky and former US president Donald Trump on a potential ceasefire offer some glimmer of hope for peace negotiations. However, it remains to be seen if Russia will take these talks seriously or continue down the path of aggression.
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