Hungary Detains Oschadbank Cash Trucks and Staff; Ukraine Demands Release

Oschadbank Cash Trucks Held in Hungary

According to Главком: On March 5, 2026, Hungarian law enforcement detained two cash-in-transit vehicles belonging to Ukraine's Oschadbank, along with seven of its employees. The National Bank of Ukraine reported that the trucks, which were transporting currency and bank metals under an international contract, are believed to be in Budapest. Ukraine has already sent an official diplomatic note demanding their immediate release.

According to the Ukrainian central bank, the two armored vehicles were stopped by Hungarian authorities. The seven bank employees accompanying the shipment are currently out of contact, and their whereabouts are unknown. GPS data suggests the Oschadbank vehicles may be located in central Budapest. This incident highlights the complex operational challenges Ukrainian banks face in cross-border financial logistics, especially during times of regional tension.

Ukrainian National Bank's Formal Demands

The cash-in-transit teams were moving foreign currency and precious metals under a contract between Austria's Raiffeisen Bank International AG and Ukraine's Oschadbank. All cargo was documented in compliance with international transport rules and valid European customs procedures.

The National Bank of Ukraine is demanding that Hungarian authorities immediately release the Ukrainian citizens and provide a formal explanation for their detention. It has also requested information on the location of the vehicles and their cargo. The incident occurred during a routine shipment between the Austrian bank and Ukraine, causing significant concern within Ukrainian financial circles.

This detention could have serious implications for Ukrainian financial institutions and their international relations. The seizure of armored vehicles during the execution of a legitimate international contract raises questions about the adherence to established trade and transit protocols. It is crucial for Ukrainian officials to receive a clear explanation from Budapest, as such actions can undermine investor confidence and disrupt essential financial operations between nations.