Hungary’s foreign minister has publicly defended actions facilitating the illegal departure of Ukrainian men during wartime, triggering renewed scrutiny of Budapest’s position on Ukraine’s defence policies and the wider consequences for the conflict.
Hungarian foreign minister publicly backs detained citizen accused of smuggling Ukrainian men
On 8 February 2026, Hungary’s foreign minister Peter Szijjarto published a social media post supporting a Hungarian citizen detained while attempting to escort Ukrainian men illegally across the border. In the same statement, he argued that Ukraine’s mobilisation policy obstructs an end to the war launched by Russia and called for its immediate suspension. He confirmed that the detained Hungarian national was receiving consular assistance. The intervention was framed as a matter of citizen protection but extended into criticism of Ukraine’s defence measures. The position was outlined in a public Facebook post addressing consular support and mobilisation, giving the remarks broad visibility.
Border detentions reveal organised scheme to evade military service
The statement followed the detention by Ukrainian border guards of six men attempting to cross into Hungary illegally. Among those detained was a Hungarian citizen acting as a guide who was expected to accompany the group across the state border. Investigators said the operation was organised for profit, with fees ranging from 9,000 to 15,000 US dollars per person. The purpose of the scheme was to enable Ukrainian men to avoid mobilisation and compulsory military service during martial law. Such actions constitute serious criminal offences under Ukrainian law. Details of the incident were reported in coverage of the illegal transfer of Ukrainian men across the border involving a Hungarian citizen.
Statements on mobilisation raise concerns of interference in Ukraine’s defence policy
Szijjarto’s call to halt mobilisation and his public defence of a suspect in an illegal border-crossing operation have drawn criticism as interference in Ukraine’s internal security decisions. Ukraine is conducting a prolonged defensive war and restricts the departure of men of conscription age as a core element of maintaining its front lines and protecting civilians. Public justification of draft evasion during wartime undermines those legal measures. Critics argue that claims of forced conscription and linking mobilisation to the continuation of the war replicate established Kremlin narratives.
Western response urged as scrutiny of cross-border networks intensifies
The episode has prompted calls for a coordinated Western response towards Hungary, particularly regarding compliance with existing sanctions and international commitments. Officials and analysts argue that the involvement of foreign nationals in organised illegal crossings requires closer examination. Attention has also focused on whether additional Hungarian citizens or officials could be connected to similar activities. The case has reinforced concerns about Hungary’s alignment on Ukraine-related security issues and the risks such actions pose to collective efforts to counter Russian aggression.
