**Hungary Deploys Air Defense Systems Near Ukraine Border**
Hungary has taken steps to boost its air defense systems near the Ukrainian border. This decision was made by Defense Minister Kristof Szalay-Bobrovniczky on November 20.
Szalay-Bobrovniczky said that the deployment of air defense systems is necessary due to increased risks after Western countries allowed Ukraine to use long-range weapons inside Russian territory. He added that “the war has entered its most dangerous phase.”
**Escalating Tensions**
The decision comes after two Russian missiles were shot down in Ukraine’s westernmost region, Zakarpattia Oblast, on November 17. This area borders Hungary and is home to an estimated 75,000 ethnic Hungarians.
Hungary has consistently criticized Western military support for Ukraine, saying it would lead to an escalation of the war. The country has maintained good ties with Russia throughout the conflict.
**Western Allies Respond**
Ukraine’s Western allies have been strengthening their support for Kyiv. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken recently pledged to bolster support for Ukraine, and President Joe Biden allowed Ukraine to use ATACMS missiles to strike deep inside Russian territory on November 17.
Other Western countries have also expressed their positions on using long-range weapons against Russia. French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot said that Paris remains open to allowing Ukraine to use French long-range missiles. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said that Rome makes a different choice and focuses on air defenses for Ukraine.
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