Ukraine denies abuse after death of ethnic Hungarian soldier, Hungary demands answers
Tensions have escalated between Hungary and Ukraine following the death of József Sebestyén, a 45-year-old ethnic Hungarian conscripted into the Ukrainian army. Hungary claims the man was beaten during forced conscription and later died from his injuries. Ukraine firmly denies the accusations.
As we reported earlier today, according to Hungary’s foreign ministry, Sebestyén was taken by force by Ukrainian recruitment officers, allegedly beaten with metal rods, and died weeks later in the hospital. Prime Minister Viktor Orbán expressed condolences to the family, blaming “forced conscription” for the death. The Ukrainian ambassador was summoned by Hungary over the incident.
Ukraine’s Armed Forces say Sebestyén was legally conscripted on 14 June after passing a medical exam, left his unit voluntarily on 18 June, and was later hospitalised with stress-related symptoms. A forensic report concluded he died of pulmonary embolism on 6 July, with no signs of physical assault.
Ukraine categorically denies abuse, forced recruitment, or human rights violations. They called for objectivity and warned against spreading unverified or emotionally driven claims, which could fuel disinformation.
The case has further strained already tense Hungarian-Ukrainian relations, especially regarding the treatment of ethnic minorities.
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