• Ukraine's SBU has detained two individuals accused of spying for Hungary, marking a historic first in uncovering a Hungarian espionage network.
• The suspects, former members of the Ukrainian military, were allegedly gathering intelligence on military defenses in the Zakarpattia region.
• In response, Hungary expelled two Ukrainian diplomats, calling Ukraine's actions a smear campaign.
• Relations between Ukraine and Hungary have deteriorated, particularly since the onset of Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
• Ukraine's Security Service stated this incident illustrates Hungary's ongoing adversarial stance despite being part of NATO and the EU.

Ukraine's Security Service (SBU) has announced the detention of two individuals suspected of operating a Hungarian spy network aimed at gathering intelligence on Ukraine's military defenses. This incident marks the first time in Ukraine's history that such a network has been uncovered, the SBU stated, asserting that the suspects were tasked with collecting data on air defense systems in the Zakarpattia region, which borders Hungary. Both individuals are former members of the Ukrainian military, and they face charges of treason, punishable by life imprisonment, according to Reuters and Newsweek.

In a swift diplomatic counteraction, Hungary expelled two Ukrainian diplomats, claiming the espionage allegations were unfounded and part of an anti-Hungarian propaganda campaign by Ukraine. Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto stated that these actions against Hungary will not be tolerated and suggested that Ukraine's accusations stemmed from its refusal to support military aid to Kyiv, as reported by BBC and Channel News Asia.

The activities of the detained suspects included gathering intelligence on military security and assessing local sentiments regarding a potential Hungarian military incursion, indicating a keen interest in public reactions in the Zakarpattia region. This area is home to a significant ethnic Hungarian community, which has been a point of contention between Ukraine and Hungary, especially over language and cultural rights. Tensions have been exacerbated by Prime Minister Viktor Orbán's pro-Russian stance, complicating Hungary's relations with Ukraine as reported by Al Jazeera and TRT Global.

The SBU confirmed that the operation was overseen by a Hungarian military intelligence officer, indicating a structured espionage initiative. Furthermore, it claimed the suspects had been provided with cash and covert communication tools, highlighting the organized nature of the espionage efforts. Hungary's response further escalated diplomatic tensions as the Hungarian Foreign Ministry denounced the allegations as mere propaganda, calling for caution in interpreting Ukraine's claims, according to Le Monde and Anadolu Agency.