The Washington Post reported that Russian intelligence allegedly proposed orchestrating an assassination attempt against Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán to influence upcoming parliamentary elections.
Strategic Importance of Hungary to Russia
Prior to key elections in Hungary, Russian foreign intelligence reportedly flagged declining support for Prime Minister Orbán, whose friendly relations with Moscow have provided the Kremlin with a strategic foothold within NATO and the European Union.
Reported Assassination Proposal
According to the Washington Post, Russian intelligence officers suggested a plan to “fundamentally change the entire paradigm of the election campaign” by “organizing an attack on Viktor Orbán.”
The report stated that such an incident would shift the campaign’s focus from socio-economic issues to emotional concerns regarding national security, stability, and the defense of the political system.
Concerns Over Fidesz’s Response
One Western official, speaking to the American newspaper, commented that “anything can happen there.” Another source stated, “I’ve never seen Fidesz so nervous,” referring to Orbán’s party.
Warnings of Potential Unforeseen Actions
Andras Telkes, a former deputy head of Hungarian foreign intelligence, warned that “panic is growing within the ruling party, and I think they may take rash steps to stay in power.”
Telkes added that “Russians will do anything to keep Orbán in power, considering Hungary part of their sphere of influence.”
Reported Russian Intelligence Presence
A European security official informed the Washington Post of the arrival of three individuals in Hungary acting on behalf of Russian military intelligence, corroborating reports from the independent Hungarian investigative portal VSquare.
Hungarian Government’s Rejection of Claims
Zoltán Kovács, a spokesperson for the Hungarian government, dismissed the article on X, stating, “Washington Post, give it a rest. You claim that so-called Russian advisors suggested a plot to organize an assassination attempt? This is not only a lie – it’s pathetically absurd. Pure, calculated intrigue.”
Kovács further accused Brussels and Kyiv of openly pushing for full political interference.
Polling Data Ahead of Elections
Hungarian elections are scheduled for April 12th. The opposition party TISZA, led by Péter Magyar, is currently leading in most independent polls, with a 20-point advantage over Orbán’s Fidesz among decided voters, according to a February survey by Median.
Reporting Information
Reported from Budapest by Jakub Bawołek (PAP).
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