President Sulyok hesitates to name Russia as perpetrator of Transcarpathian strike

What transpired between 8:35 and 9:33 this morning? At 8:35, President Tamás Sulyok posted that Russian forces had attacked Transcarpathia. Less than an hour later, however, he removed the word “Russian,” referring only to a missile strike. According to the pro-government outlet Index, Sulyok had not yet received confirmation of Russian responsibility. Opposition politicians, meanwhile, argue that the edit reveals the president as little more than a puppet of Prime Minister Viktor Orbán—and his propaganda machine—speaking only when and how Fidesz deems fit. Political analyst Gábor Török went further, accusing Sulyok of digital illiteracy.

Russian missile strike also targets Hungarians in Transcarpathia

Early this morning, Russian missiles struck multiple sites in Transcarpathia. Two Kalibr missiles hit the American-owned Flex electronics plant and its warehouse in Mukachevo, sending thick black smoke laden with toxic substances into the air just a few dozen kilometres from the Hungarian border. At least 15 people were injured, several of whom remain hospitalised. No Hungarian casualties have been reported. Click for more details about the attack.

Are Ukrainians also to blame for being invaded?

President Sulyok was among the first to respond, expressing wishes for a speedy recovery and calling for an end to the bloodshed by urging the conclusion of the Russia–Ukraine war. His message appeared to place equal blame on both sides, echoing the Orbán government’s long-standing narrative that Ukraine provoked Russia and that, while Russia is the aggressor, Ukrainians should seek peace rather than defend themselves.

The Hungarian government has yet to resolve this contradiction, as pursuing peace would require recognising Russian occupation. Meanwhile, during a meeting in Alaska with Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin appeared to signal ambitions for further territorial gains currently held by Ukrainian forces.