Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU) has revealed the existence of a Hungarian intelligence operative who previously worked undercover in Georgia. The SBU announced on Monday that Zoltán Andre operated within Georgia from 2016 to 2020, posing as a representative of the Hungarian diplomatic mission. He subsequently led a spy network discovered in spring 2025, operating in Ukraine’s Zakarpattia region, a region with a significant Hungarian minority.
Hungary and Ukraine have experienced ongoing tensions for years, with Prime Minister Viktor Orbán frequently criticizing Ukraine and President Volodymyr Zelenskyi, and often obstructing EU assistance and Russian sanctions. The SBU’s statement primarily highlighted Andre’s alleged espionage activities in Ukraine. He is accused of attempting to pinpoint the locations of Ukrainian air defense units protecting the skies over the western region.
Andre utilized Hungary’s diplomatic mission as a cover for his intelligence operations. The Georgian government has yet to issue a public response to these claims. The Georgian Dream party, a key backer of Orbán’s Fidesz party within the European Union, has consistently supported him.
Orbán is currently facing a significant challenge in upcoming Hungarian parliamentary elections on April 12th. Georgian officials, including Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze, have openly expressed their support for Orbán. Mikheil Lomtadze leads the list of wealthiest Georgians, while Ivanishvili follows in second place.
Open Caucasus Media continues to provide news and analysis from Georgia, Ukraine, and Hungary, covering their complex relations.
Topics: #ukraine #georgia #hungarian
