Peter Madiar, the incoming Prime Minister of Hungary, stated that he will address the issue of blocked Ukrainian assets, specifically those of Oschadbank, with President Volodymyr Zelensky only after he officially assumes office.
In response to Zelensky’s accusations against the previous Hungarian government, alleging that Viktor Orbán was involved in the “theft” of funds from cash transporters, Madiar remained measured in his comments. He remarked, “We do not know the reality; we have only seen propaganda news.”
Madiar expressed skepticism regarding many details of the case and called for “common sense.” He emphasized that once he takes office, he will prioritize more pressing matters with Zelensky than the Oschadbank situation.
Additionally, Madiar promised to reopen the Druzhba oil pipeline, which has been a point of contention.
Context of the Scandal
On March 6, 2026, two cash transport vehicles belonging to Oschadbank were unlawfully detained in Hungary while transporting currency and banking metals. According to the bank, the cargo was valued at $40 million, €35 million, and 9 kilograms of gold.
The Orbán government initiated an investigation on suspicions of money laundering, and the Hungarian Parliament passed legislation to seize these assets pending the outcome of the investigation. Kyiv labeled Budapest’s actions as “theft” and threatened accountability for those involved.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated that Kyiv would hold all parties accountable for the incident. Oschadbank has demanded the return of the unlawfully detained vehicles and funds, emphasizing that the transport was conducted under an international agreement with Austria’s Raiffeisen Bank.
Following the victory of the opposition party Tisa in the parliamentary elections on April 12 and the subsequent change of government in Hungary, the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs lifted its travel advisory against Hungary on April 13.
Peter Madiar, Hungary's future Prime Minister, plans to discuss the return of blocked Ukrainian assets after taking office. The situation involves allegations of unlawful asset detention by Hungary, which Ukraine has condemned.