Here are all the ingredients for a stinking soup of Russian illegalists, more mistrust of Hungary and speculation about what Viktor Orbán may have received from Vladimir Putin to give Russians and Belarusians access to Hungary, and thus the opportunity to slip further into the EU.
One word for what is happening is worry.
Vladimir Putin has found the hole in the fence into the EU. The one who cut it up for him on the other side is Viktor Orbán.
The Prime Minister of Hungary met the President of Russia on 5 July. The trip was called a peace trip and it did start in Kiev. Hungary had just stepped into its half year as the country holding the presidency of the EU.
Shortly after the trip to Moscow, the decision was made. Eight countries have the opportunity to apply for work visas to Hungary. Six of the countries are candidate countries for the EU. Two of the countries are thus Russia and Belarus. The EU canceled the visa agreement it had with Russia in the summer of 2022. Since then, we have seen 14 sanctions packages against Russia.
Hungary’s decision threatens the EU’s security
Now the EU Commission demands an answer from Hungary. Ylva Johansson, Commissioner for Internal Security tells TV4 Nyheterna:
– Hungary’s decision could be a direct threat to the EU’s internal security. Russia is behind a long series of attacks in EU member states and is suspected of even more. In connection with this summer’s prisoner exchange, it became clear that Russia is sending agents who live under cover within the EU.
– We must be vigilant and carry out thorough security checks, it is not the time to open new doors that make it easier for Russia to send agents to the EU. I demand an answer from Hungary, which they must give to the commission by September 11 at the latest, she continues.
A Russian doll?
The question is whether any answer can be considered reasonable in Brussels and in other EU countries. We live in a time where borders are strengthened. Security and intelligence services in EU countries are actively looking for saboteurs. So what is the conclusion to be drawn?
Here, as I said, concern is expressed. Diplomats in Brussels often express themselves cautiously. But panic is a better word. What is happening with Hungary? Is the country a Russian doll? It is difficult to see what is inside the first gum.
Now Hungary has given Russia and Belarus an opportunity to let saboteurs, poison killers and spies into the EU by the back door.
It can be stated with certainty that measures will be taken from the rest of the EU to reduce the risk Hungary exposes them to. We don’t know how yet. And what does Hungary’s future in the EU look like when the country seems to prioritize Russian wishes?