Hungary calls Russian hybrid activity in Europe a ‘serious threat’ after Leipzig drone plot
Hungary has condemned what it called a growing number of Russian hybrid operations on European soil and offered support to Germany after Berlin formally blamed Moscow for an attempted explosive drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport.
“Hungary is deeply concerned by the growing number and intensity of Russian hybrid activities on European soil,” Hungarian Foreign Minister Anita Orbán wrote on X.
“Recent incidents in Germany demonstrate an increasingly dangerous and reckless pattern of behaviour that poses a serious threat to European security and resilience,” she said.
Orbán said Hungary stood “in full solidarity with Germany” and was ready to help Berlin counter hybrid threats.
“In the face of these challenges, strengthening the resilience, unity and collective preparedness of the European Union and NATO is more important than ever,” she added.
The statement is notable given Hungary’s traditionally warmer relations with Moscow under Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, whose government has frequently criticized EU sanctions against Russia and maintained closer ties with the Kremlin than most other EU and NATO members.
Germany formally blamed Russia on Sept. 1 for an attempted drone attack at Leipzig/Halle Airport in August. German authorities said an explosive-laden drone was discovered at the airport near several Ukrainian cargo aircraft and that evidence gathered at the scene pointed to Russian involvement.
Berlin summoned the Russian ambassador and ordered Russia’s Consulate General in Bonn to close, among other measures. Moscow has denied involvement.
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