Hungary withdraws troops deployed to defend against "Ukrainian threat"
After the election in Hungary, troops deployed to guard critical infrastructure facilities against the so-called "Ukrainian threat" are being withdrawn from their positions.
Source: European Pravda citing HVG, a Hungarian online news portal
Details: During the election campaign, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán suggested that Ukraine could strike Hungarian energy systems amid what he claimed is the blocking of the resumption of oil flows through the Druzhba pipeline, and deployed troops to protect them.
The order to withdraw the troops was given by Gábor Böröndi, Chief of Defence Staff of the Hungarian Defence Forces.
Quote from the Hungarian Defence Forces: "The Hungarian Defence Forces have begun to rationalise the number of service personnel involved in reinforcing the protection of infrastructure and energy facilities."
More details: The General Staff said operators of critical infrastructure have, in the meantime, reviewed and adjusted their security measures and strengthened the protection of their own facilities.
Quote: "Therefore, from 15 April 2026, the Hungarian Defence Forces will gradually reduce the number of deployed forces and withdraw troops from locations where the Ministry of Energy no longer considers military reinforcement necessary."
The Hungarian armed forces sent 600 soldiers to guard energy infrastructure.
Background:
- Serbia also deployed the armed forces to guard infrastructure that ensures the transit of gas to Hungary. The authorities also reported an attempted act of sabotage on a gas pipeline.
- Szijjártó also hinted that Ukraine may be implicated in the foiled "sabotage". Kyiv has categorically rejected these accusations and suggested a Russian trace as part of Moscow's interference in the Hungarian election in Orbán's favour.
- Đuro Jovanić, Director of Serbia's Military Security Agency, reported that Serbian authorities found no evidence of a "Ukrainian connection" in an alleged attempt to sabotage a gas pipeline supplying Hungary.
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