Hungary detains 7 Ukrainians and confiscates million in cash, leading Kyiv to accuse Hungary of taking hostages.

In a significant development, Hungarian authorities have detained seven Ukrainian nationals and confiscated two armored vehicles transporting large amounts of cash, as part of an investigation into alleged money laundering activities. The incident occurred on Friday and has sparked a diplomatic dispute between Hungary and Ukraine, highlighting the tense relations between the two nations.

According to officials, the detained individuals were employees of Oschadbank, a state-owned financial institution in Ukraine. They were reportedly in transit between Austria and Ukraine, carrying a substantial shipment that included approximately million in U.S. currency, €35 million, and around 9 kilograms of gold, which is valued at around .5 million. The Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration has confirmed the seizure and is currently conducting criminal proceedings regarding the suspected money laundering.

Ukraine has accused Hungary’s government, which is perceived as pro-Russian, of unlawfully detaining its citizens and confiscating significant amounts of cash. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha expressed strong criticism through social media, stating that his government would not tolerate what he called state banditry. He highlighted that those responsible for the incident would be held accountable.

Hungary’s Government Information Center announced that the detained Ukrainians would be expelled from the country the same day. Reports indicate that among those detained were individuals with military backgrounds, including a former general of the Ukrainian Security Service and a former major of the Ukrainian Air Force. However, the reasoning behind their release, despite being implicated in money laundering, was not elaborated on in official communications.

This incident marks a further escalation in the already strained relationship between Hungary and Ukraine, particularly amidst ongoing disputes over energy supplies. Tensions are heightened due to Hungary’s access to Russian oil via the Druzhba pipeline, which has faced interruptions since January 27 due to reported damage from Russian drone strikes. Hungary has accused Ukraine of obstructing its energy supplies and has vowed to take strong measures unless oil flows are restored.

As Hungary approaches pivotal elections, Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has intensified his anti-Ukrainian rhetoric, labeling Ukraine as a national threat. Orbán has asserted that the best way for Ukraine to influence Hungary would be through political changes within the country. His government has taken measures to halt important transactions involving Ukraine, insisting on approval for oil shipments.

In response to the escalating situation, Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry has urged its citizens to avoid traveling to Hungary, citing concerns over arbitrary actions from Hungarian authorities. The ministry has also called for a reconsideration of business engagements in Hungary, warning of the potential for property seizures. The unfolding situation continues to draw attention, not only due to its immediate implications for Hungary and Ukraine but also within the broader context of European energy security and geopolitical dynamics.