Are Russian missiles escalating the war in Ukraine over Hungarian towns and villages?
Russian missiles over Transcarpathia, home to at least 100,000 Hungarians
According to the Carpathian True Word, another significant Russian missile attack occurred in Transcarpathia, targeting the energy infrastructure of the country. The attack saw two missiles flying into the airspace of Transcarpathia earlier today.
Miroslav Bilecky, the public administration head of the region, informed the newspaper that the air defense forces successfully intercepted two Russian missiles over Transcarpathia. Fragments of the first missile landed near Munkács, a town with a significant Hungarian population, while the other missile landed near Várkulcsa.
The local newspaper has not reported any casualties or significant damage from the attack. A journalist from Ungvár (Uzhhorod) confirmed that the type of weapon used was the Kh-101 cruise missile, and authorities are currently searching for the missile fragments.
This recent missile attack on Transcarpathia follows a similar incident on November 17, where Russian missiles fell near Munkács and Rahó.
Transcarpathia, although not a primary target in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, has experienced sporadic missile attacks, with the last attack in February 2022. Despite the unrest, Transcarpathia has not implemented a curfew, unlike other regions in Ukraine.
As of the latest census in 2017, approximately 131,000 Hungarians resided in Transcarpathia. However, recent estimates suggest that the number has decreased to around 100,000 Hungarians in the region.
Government Pushes for Christmas Ceasefire in Ukraine
Prime Minister Viktor Orbán recently proposed a Christmas ceasefire in Ukraine to allow for peaceful festivities and an exchange of prisoners, with hopes that the incoming inauguration of President Trump on January 20 will bring about peace in the region. While President Putin reportedly accepted the ceasefire proposal, Kyiv has yet to approve it.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó expressed his hopes for a ceasefire and prisoner exchange during the Christmas season, emphasizing the importance of peace and stability in the region. He also highlighted Hungary’s efforts to restore stability in Syria to prevent a new wave of illegal migrants.
Despite challenges in negotiations and political tensions, Hungary remains committed to promoting peace and protecting vulnerable communities in conflict-affected areas. Szijjártó emphasized the need for responsible communication and the avoidance of fake news that could exacerbate the situation.
As the conflict in Ukraine continues, Hungary stands firm in its efforts to advocate for peace and stability in the region, working towards a peaceful resolution and the protection of all affected communities.
