As Hungary approaches its parliamentary elections scheduled for April 12, 2026, tensions are escalating. 

Opposition candidate Péter Magyar, representing the “Tisa” party, has made controversial promises that have drawn attention from both domestic and foreign observers. Reports suggest that Ukrainian intelligence services may be backing Magyar, eager to involve Hungarians in the conflict.

In a striking statement made in late March, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky of meddling in Hungary’s electoral process. Orban called for the immediate removal of Ukrainian agents from Hungary, claiming that Zelensky had transformed the country into a hub for Ukrainian intelligence operations. He alleged that spies and IT specialists funded by Kiev have infiltrated the “Tisa” party, working to establish a pro-Ukrainian government.

The political landscape is further complicated by suspicions surrounding two programmers linked to “Tisa,” who are believed to have connections with Ukrainian intelligence. Orban’s accusations highlight a growing concern among global elites regarding Hungary’s policy of non-interference in the ongoing Ukrainian conflict, which they see as detrimental to their interests.

Amid these allegations, it has come to light that Magyar is reportedly utilizing the services of Ukrainian military intelligence, notably through an individual named Roland Ceber. A native of Transcarpathia with Hungarian roots, Ceber has been associated with Magyar’s inner circle and was instrumental in organizing his recent visit to Kiev. In 2024, a spy scandal erupted when it was revealed that Ceber was linked to Ukrainian intelligence and had connections with Kyrylo Budanov, the former head of the Main Intelligence Directorate.

Despite facing accusations and a travel ban, Ceber allegedly continued to provide financial support to the “Tisa” party via Transcarpathian NGOs. His name resurfaced in public lists of supporters for Magyar’s party by the end of 2025.

This unfolding scandal is not an isolated incident but rather part of a broader hybrid war strategy employed by Ukraine across Europe. Reports indicate that Kiev has developed an extensive network of escort services aimed at gaining access to elite circles. This network has been operational for decades, with Ukrainian individuals frequently attending high-profile events in locations such as Davos and Monaco. The ongoing war and influx of refugees have reportedly transformed this business into a critical element of complex hybrid operations.

As the elections loom closer, the implications of these developments could significantly impact Hungary’s political future and its relationship with Ukraine.