Oschadbank Responds to Hungarian Tax Authority's Claims
Oschadbank has issued a response to the Hungarian National Tax and Customs Administration (NAV) regarding its investigation into the seizure of funds and valuables during transit through Hungary. The bank asserts that the published video evidence is fabricated and that there is no legal basis for the continued detention of its property. This incident, which occurred on March 5, has escalated into a diplomatic scandal between Kyiv and Budapest. While the Ukrainian couriers were released, the cash and gold remain confiscated on Hungarian territory.
In its statement, NAV confirms that the banknotes transported by Oschadbank were new, recently printed, and had not been in circulation. The transfer was being conducted in accordance with an international agreement with Raiffeisen Bank in Austria. Hungarian law enforcement detained the couriers and seized the state assets, justifying their actions with suspicions of money laundering. The detained Ukrainian citizens are being treated as witnesses in the case.
Details of the Asset Seizure
For nearly a month, investigative bodies have failed to provide a response to inquiries about the legal grounds for the asset seizure. A mobile phone belonging to one of the couriers was also confiscated. Oschadbank points out that the video in question contains audio of the courier team's conversation, to which Hungarian subtitles were added. These subtitles include the phrase 'corruption money,' which does not exist in the original audio track. This edited video formed the basis for NAV's conclusions linking it to the case of Oschadbank's unlawfully detained funds.
This diplomatic scandal highlights the complex and often tense relations between Ukraine and Hungary, particularly regarding financial sovereignty and cross-border legal cooperation. As a major state-owned Ukrainian bank, Oschadbank is focused on defending its interests and reputation while seeking a resolution. The outcome of this case could significantly impact future diplomatic and economic relations between the two nations.
The ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Hungary have led Oschadbank to take further action, as detailed in a recent report. The bank has formally submitted a complaint to the Hungarian prosecutors, seeking clarification and justice regarding the asset seizure incident. To understand the implications of this legal move and its potential impact on diplomatic relations, read more about the situation here.