Hungary Seizes Oschadbank Cash, Gold, and Personnel in Budapest.

13.04.2026 592

13.04.2026 592

Hungary Seizes Oschadbank Cash, Gold, and Personnel in Budapest

Millions Seized and Accusations Leveled Against Budapest

According to TSN.ua: Hungary has failed to take concrete steps to release seven Ukrainian citizens detained in Budapest and has denied Ukrainian consuls access to them. The detentions occurred during the seizure of Oschadbank cash-in-transit personnel who were moving a substantial sum of money and gold. Hungarian authorities apprehended the couriers, who were in possession of $40 million, €35 million, and 9 kilograms of gold.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has labeled Budapest's actions as state terrorism. He specifically stated that

Budapest's actions constitute state terrorism

. In response, the Hungarian tax and customs authority claims that over $900 million and 146 kilograms of gold have been transported to Ukraine this year alone.

Hungarian government spokesperson Zoltan Kovacs announced plans to deport the seven detained Ukrainian citizens. However, according to Georgii Tykhyi,

as of now, apart from public statements, the Hungarian side has taken no real steps regarding consular access or the release of Ukrainian citizens

. The National Police of Ukraine has already opened criminal proceedings on the grounds of kidnapping.

This incident highlights the ongoing tension between Ukraine and Hungary, a NATO and EU member state whose government has maintained closer ties with Russia than other European allies. The refusal by Hungarian authorities to grant consular access has raised serious concerns among Ukrainian officials, who view it as a breach of international norms. The subsequent actions of both nations could significantly impact their diplomatic relations and may prompt intervention from the international community to resolve the dispute.