Hungary Summoned by Ukraine Over Transfer of Prisoners of War from Russia.

Incident Involving Ukrainian Soldiers in Hungary

According to TSN.ua: On March 5th, two soldiers from Ukraine's Armed Forces (ZSU) who also hold Hungarian citizenship arrived in Budapest from Moscow. Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó commented on the situation, stressing the importance of preventing Hungary from being drawn into the war in Ukraine. He also published photos of the released prisoners. This incident prompted a response from Ukrainian authorities.

According to reports, an order for the release of the two ZSU soldiers was issued during a meeting between Szijjártó and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow. However, Ukraine's Coordination Headquarters for the Treatment of Prisoners of War condemned the transfer of the prisoners to the Hungarian side. Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Hungary's chargé d'affaires to discuss the matter, emphasizing that the handover of the soldiers occurred without coordination with Kyiv. This move has strained relations between the two neighboring countries, which have a complex history.

Reactions and Commentary

'We left so that more of us could return home than we left.' - Péter Szijjártó

He added that 'the most important task of his government is to never allow Hungary to be drawn into this war.' Meanwhile, the Ukrainian side stressed the inadmissibility of publicity and politicization of sensitive issues, stating that this matter requires special attention and delicacy.

Ukraine's reaction to this situation leaves open questions about future actions and strategy in relations with Hungary, given the sensitivity of the topic of prisoners of war. The incident highlights the ongoing diplomatic challenges in Europe stemming from Russia's full-scale invasion.

This event underscores the complexity of diplomatic relations between Ukraine and Hungary against the backdrop of the ongoing war. The importance of coordinated action on prisoner releases is critical to avoiding further tensions. Hungary, while attempting to maintain a neutral position, may face difficulties in its relationship with Ukraine, which seeks to protect its interests and the rights of its military personnel.