Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban has issued a directive for the government to hold more than $80 million in cash and gold that were seized from a Ukrainian bank during an investigation that began when two vehicles belonging to Oschadbank were stopped in Hungary. The seized assets included $40 million, 35 million euros, and 9 kilograms of gold, which were being transported from Austria back to Ukraine. The order, reported by the Associated Press, allows authorities to retain these assets for up to 60 days as the investigation unfolds.

Hungarian authorities' actions have drawn sharp criticism from Ukraine, which has categorized the detention of these assets as an example of "state terrorism" and has demanded their immediate return. The situation escalated after the detention of seven employees of Oschadbank, who were reportedly subjected to physical and psychological pressure before being expelled from Hungary. The Hungarian government has justified its actions, linking the seizure to suspicions of money laundering, a claim that has not been well received in Ukraine, where it is viewed as further evidence of Hungary's increasingly pro-Russian stance in EU politics.

This incident not only highlights the fraught relations between Hungary and Ukraine but also raises concerns about EU internal dynamics, particularly regarding Hungary's relationship with Russia. The use of such terminology as "state terrorism" by Kyiv indicates the deepening tension between the two nations and raises questions about how EU member states can navigate conflicts that arise within their borders involving other member states. The long-term implications of this incident may impact bilateral relations as well as Hungary's standing in the EU, especially concerning its willingness to align with Kremlin interests against EU solidarity on issues related to Ukraine.