Hungarian Prime Minister Péter Magyar has announced that his government has summoned the Russian ambassador following a massive drone attack near Hungary's border, signaling a significant departure from his predecessor's friendly relations with Moscow. In a press conference, Magyar stated, "The Hungarian government strongly condemns the Russian attack on Transcarpathia." He added that the foreign minister will meet with the Russian ambassador on Thursday morning to demand clarification on when Russia and President Vladimir Putin plan "to finally end this bloody war."
Shift in Hungary's Foreign Policy
The move marks a stark contrast to the previous administration, which had blocked aid for Ukraine and hindered its efforts to join the European Union. The outgoing government, voted out of office this month, had maintained close ties with the Kremlin. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded on social media, thanking Magyar for his "compassion and strong position."
Massive Russian Drone Barrage
Russia launched at least 800 drones in a large-scale daytime attack across approximately 20 regions of Ukraine on Wednesday, according to reports. The strikes targeted critical infrastructure, particularly in Kyiv. Ukrainian monitors detected at least eight waves of drones, including some entering from Belarus. Poland, as a preventive measure, scrambled fighter jets in response to the airstrikes. The bombardment continued into Thursday, with Russia firing 675 drones and 56 missiles. Ukraine's air force reported shooting down 652 drones and 41 missiles, with damage recorded at 38 locations.
Changes in Russian Border Regions
The governors of two Russian regions bordering Ukraine, Belgorod and Bryansk, have resigned, and their replacements have met with President Putin. Vyacheslav Gladkov of Belgorod and Alexander Bogomaz of Bryansk stepped down at their own request. Alexander Shuvaev, a decorated veteran, has been appointed as the new governor of Belgorod, while Yegor Kovalchuk, a specialist in banking and administration, takes over Bryansk. The governor of Kursk, another border region, was previously dismissed after a Ukrainian incursion and jailed on corruption charges.
US Legislative Push for Ukraine Aid
In the United States, supporters of a bill to aid Ukraine and sanction Russia have gathered 218 signatures on a petition, enough to bypass Republican leadership and force a House vote. The legislation would provide over $1 billion in security aid and make $8 billion available in loans. While the measure is unlikely to become law, it will compel lawmakers to publicly state their position on Ukraine support. Advocates have urged President Donald Trump to take a stronger stance against Russia.
Moscow Restricts Media Coverage
Moscow authorities have imposed restrictions on publishing photos and videos of "terrorist attacks," including drone strikes, to prevent the spread of "unreliable information." Media, individuals, and emergency services are prohibited from releasing such material until it appears on official government websites. The directive aims to control the narrative around attacks.
NATO Calls for Strengthened Air Defenses
Leaders of 14 NATO allies have called for consolidating the alliance's air defenses against missiles and drones, citing repeated Russian airspace violations in eastern flank countries. In a joint statement issued after a meeting in Bucharest, they urged greater cooperation in building defense industry capacity. Romania, Poland, and Baltic states have reported multiple breaches of their airspace by Russian drones. Russia denies targeting NATO states.
