The Hungarian ruling party Fidesz has suggested that Hungarian authorities should hold gold and cash valued at millions of euros, seized from two Ukrainian vehicles, for a period of two months. This comes after seven Ukrainian bank employees were detained in Hungary while traveling from Austria to Ukraine, under the suspicion of money laundering. They were transporting more than 500 million kroner in gold and cash. Although the Ukrainian nationals have been expelled from Hungary, the seized assets remain in the country's possession.

Ukraine has accused Hungary of theft in this situation, claiming that the Hungarian government is using the detained bank employees as leverage to pressure Ukraine into resuming Russian oil supplies via the Druzjba pipeline. The initial accusations entailed Hungary taking the Ukrainians hostage, further complicating diplomatic relations between the two countries. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán has demanded explanations regarding the substantial amounts the Ukrainians were carrying, highlighting concerns over the legitimacy of the funds.

This incident not only raises issues of international relations between Ukraine and Hungary but also underscores broader tensions regarding money laundering and the movement of wealth across borders amid the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. As Hungary grapples with these accusations, it faces the challenge of balancing its diplomatic stance with practical economic realities concerning energy supplies and international finance.