Latest news in Hungary - 15 Jun 2025

Alligator Turtle Spotted in Csepel: An alligator turtle, an invasive species native to America, has been sighted along the Little Danube in Csepel, prompting warnings from Mayor Lénárd Borbély about its potential danger to humans and the local ecosystem. Residents are advised to report any sightings to authorities, as this species can inflict serious injuries. Read more here

Tragic Drowning at Palatinus Beach: A six-year-old girl tragically drowned in the children's pool at Budapest's Palatinus Beach while playing unsupervised, with authorities suspecting a possible seizure. Despite extensive resuscitation efforts by emergency services, the child could not be revived, and an investigation is underway. Read more here

British Ambassador Critiques Government's War Rhetoric: At a reception celebrating King Charles III's birthday, Paul Fox, the British ambassador to Hungary, criticized the Hungarian government for its aggressive rhetoric towards the war in Ukraine and its treatment of minorities. He emphasized that true support for the war resides in Moscow, not Brussels or London, and warned against rewarding Russian aggression, while highlighting the importance of supporting democracy and Ukraine’s struggle for survival. Read more here

Pride March Set for June 28: Barabás Richárd, co-chair of the Dialogue-Greens, asserts that despite government opposition, the Pride parade will take place on June 28, emphasizing the importance of self-acceptance and social progress. He encourages János Lázár to attend, insisting that participants pose no threat to him, and criticizing the government's rhetoric towards LGBTQ rights as oppressive. Read more here

Puskás Academy Signs Top Scorer Nagy Zoárd: Puskás Academy has signed 22-year-old forward Nagy Zoárd, the top scorer of last season's NB II, to a contract lasting until 2029. Last season, he scored 18 goals in 29 matches while playing for Csákvár, solidifying his reputation as a key attacking asset. Read more here

Hungarian Fencers Shine at European Championships: Áron Szilágyi clinched a silver medal in the men's foil, while Flóra Pásztor earned bronze in the women's foil at the European Championships in Genoa. Szilágyi, a three-time Olympic champion, made a strong comeback after surgery, and Pásztor showcased her skills to secure the first medal for Hungary at the event. Read more here

New Anti-Drug Law Takes Effect: A strict new anti-drug law has been implemented in Hungary, categorizing the distribution of new psychoactive substances as a crime and enabling police to seize assets linked to drug trafficking. Repeat offenders will face harsher penalties, and users can avoid punishment only by providing information about their dealers. Reports suggest a decrease in drug availability recently, alongside increased public support for anti-drug measures. Read more here