Seven Ukrainian nationals detained in Budapest have been released and safely returned to Ukraine, the country’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, announced on X.
The detainees had been employees of the state-owned Oschadbank, traveling with two armored cash-in-transit vehicles carrying foreign currency and bank metals between Austria and Ukraine.
They were seized in Hungary on 5 March, an act Kyiv described as effectively taking hostages while confiscating state assets.
Sybiha said consular staff provided all necessary assistance and thanked teams across the Foreign Ministry, law enforcement, government agencies, and state banks for their efforts.
Kyiv: political pressure, not law enforcement
Earlier, Sybiha accused Hungarian authorities of using the detentions as part of a political and electoral campaign. He said Budapest had made demands on Ukraine following the abductions and warned that anyone responsible would be held accountable, with Kyiv reserving the right to impose sanctions or other measures.
Sybiha described the detentions as “state terrorism and racketeering,” saying Hungary had effectively taken hostages and stolen money. He added that Kyiv had already sent an official note demanding the immediate release of the Ukrainians and planned to ask the European Union to formally assess Hungary’s actions.
The National Police of Ukraine launched criminal investigations under articles covering unlawful deprivation of liberty and hostage-taking. Police coordinated with Europol, Hungary’s customs and tax authorities, and law enforcement to determine all circumstances surrounding the case.
The Druzhba backdrop
The incident unfolded amid growing tension over the Druzhba oil pipeline. Russia destroyed a pumping station in Lviv Oblast in January, halting deliveries, and Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán blamed Ukraine for the disruption, demanding repairs.
Ukrainian officials said Budapest’s actions were an attempt to pressure Kyiv over Russian oil transit.
Ukrainian authorities emphasized the importance of accountability. Sybiha said the foreign diplomatic corps would be briefed on Hungary’s actions, with Kyiv urging international partners to respond and support Ukraine in demanding explanations and accountability.
