Hungary seizes millions of euros in cash and gold from Ukrainian convoy

The Guardian - World NewsCenter-LeftEN 3 min read 100% complete by Shaun Walker in Kyiv and Flora Garamvolgyi in BudapestMarch 6, 2026 at 05:00 PM

Read Original Article

AI Summary

medium article 3 min

Hungary seized millions of euros in cash and gold from a Ukrainian convoy traveling through the country, arresting seven Ukrainian citizens. Hungarian officials cited concerns about the money's origin and potential links to intelligence operations, initiating a money-laundering investigation. Ukraine's foreign minister accused Hungary of theft and political manipulation by Viktor Orbán ahead of upcoming elections. The seized shipment included $40 million and €35 million in cash, along with 9kg of gold, reportedly being transported by Ukraine's state savings bank between Austria and Ukraine due to air travel restrictions. The incident escalates tensions between the two countries, already strained over gas supplies and Hungary's opposition to EU sanctions and aid for Ukraine.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Slovakia 30% Austria 30% European Union 40% Péter Magyar 40% Russia ×240% Volodymyr Zelenskyy 50% Balázs Orbán 50% Oschadbank 60% Andrii Sybiha ×260% Viktor Orbán ×680% Hungary ×1090% Ukraine ×890%

Keywords

hungary ukraine relations 90% cash seizure 80% money laundering investigation 70% viktor orbán 70% political gain 60% hungarian elections 50% eu sanctions 50% gold 40%