A recent investigation has unveiled that Hungary has allegedly deployed agents to spy on European Union institutions in Brussels. This revelation was made public in a report published by the Belgian newspaper De Tijd. The investigation was a collaborative effort involving several media organizations, including Direkt36, Der Spiegel, and Der Standard.
Background of the Investigation
The report stems from months of research and numerous sources. Insiders from the Hungarian intelligence service, as well as EU officials, contributed to the findings. On the same day as the report’s release, the European Commission announced it would open an investigation into the allegations against Hungary.
Allegations of Espionage
The report details interactions between a Hungarian employee of the European Commission and a diplomat identified only as “V.” This diplomat was based at Hungary’s permanent representation to the EU and managed economic and financial issues. Meetings took place in a Brussels park from 2015 to 2017, reportedly every three to six months.
- Meetings continued until a formal proposal was presented to the Commission official.
- The proposal involved becoming a “secret agent” for the Hungarian intelligence service, known as the Informacios Hivatal (IH).
- The official declined the offer, expressing concern that it served the interests of a singular power rather than Hungary itself.
Espionage Tactics
This type of covert operation is often linked to adversarial nations like Russia or China. However, according to the report, Hungary’s intelligence agency began deploying undercover officers in Brussels as early as a decade ago. These individuals were often disguised as diplomats, which provided them with added security.
Organizational Practices of Hungarian Intelligence
The Hungarian intelligence service reportedly uses designations reminiscent of the Soviet era. Those who verbally agree to cooperate are called “trusted domestic contacts,” while individuals who sign agreements are termed “secret collaborators.”
Involvement of EU Officials
The report also raises questions about the involvement of Oliver Varhelyi, the current European Commissioner for Health and Food Safety. Sources allege that he supervised the intelligence activities during his time as head of the Hungarian Permanent Representation to the EU.
- Varhelyi reportedly visited the leadership of IH in Budapest on multiple occasions.
- Claims suggest he was aware of undercover agents operating within his diplomatic team.
Conclusion
The findings from the investigation bring serious implications for Hungary and its engagement with EU institutions. As the European Commission moves forward with its inquiry, the extent and impact of these espionage allegations will continue to unfold.
