Hungary's decision to extend its national card system to include Russian and Belarusian nationals has sparked widespread controversy within the European Union. Critics, including EU migration officials and members of the European Parliament, express concerns that this policy could facilitate espionage and security breaches amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, who maintains close ties with the Kremlin, dismissed the EU's reactions as 'political hysteria' and emphasized the program's intentions to support economic needs. The new visa scheme, which allows for easier entry into the Schengen Area, has been met with skepticism regarding the adequacy of security screenings for these nationals. European officials have called for a more thorough discussion and clarification from Budapest, especially in light of recent sabotage incidents attributed to Russian operatives across Europe. The situation remains tense as Hungary balances its geopolitical stance and relations with both the EU and Russia.