The Hungarian government has issued a decree ordering the armed forces to enhance training and exercises in view of the “protracted and threatening escalation” of the war in Ukraine.
The defense ministry said in a statement that Hungarian security and defense “are now the first priority”. The timeframe for the preparation and training of soldiers will be extended, and during a wartime emergency, members of the armed forces can expect to perform overtime as well as enhanced exercises and training, the statement said. The army’s basic task is the military defense of Hungary’s independence, its territorial integrity and borders, as well as performing common defense and peacekeeping tasks arising from international treaties, the statement said, adding that it must also see to humanitarian activities in line with international law.