MEPs call for consequences over Hungarian authorities’ detention of cash transporters
Thirty-five members of the European Parliament have written to European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen demanding consequences for Hungary’s detention of Ukrainian cash-in-transit personnel and seizure of funds belonging to a Ukrainian state bank. The move follows what Kyiv has described as an unlawful confiscation of assets from Ukraine’s Oschadbank, with the MEPs characterising Budapest’s actions as “daylight robbery.” The letter represents mounting international pressure on the Hungarian government amid its increasingly confrontational stance towards Ukraine during the ongoing war with Russia.
Parliamentarians condemn “unacceptable and provocative” actions
The cross-party group of MEPs expressed “deep concern regarding the unacceptable, unlawful and provocative actions of the Hungarian government” in their correspondence with the Commission chief. They stated that Hungary’s behaviour represented a breach of good neighbourly relations, particularly given Ukraine’s current defence against Russian aggression while upholding European values. The parliamentarians emphasised that such actions cast a negative shadow over the entire European Union as they contravene both EU customs procedures and international transport regulations.
Ukrainian officials welcome European parliamentary support
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba publicly thanked the MEPs for their “clear position regarding Hungary’s banditry,” describing their statement as reflecting a principled European stance in defence of the rule of law and shared values. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had previously characterised Hungary’s actions regarding the cash transporters and Oschadbank funds as banditry, while Ukraine’s National Bank asserted that Budapest had initiated international blackmail against the country.
Fidesz legislation seeks to retroactively legitimise confiscation
The MEPs’ letter specifically references legislation proposed by Hungary’s ruling Fidesz party that would retroactively legalise the confiscation of Ukrainian assets. This parliamentary initiative has amplified concerns that the Hungarian government is attempting to create legal cover for actions already undertaken. The lawmakers stated that the behaviour of both the Hungarian government and Fidesz could only be characterised as “daylight robbery,” highlighting the unprecedented nature of the seizure within the European context.
Commission pressed for comprehensive assessment and asset return
The European Parliament members have called upon the Commission leadership to take active measures to secure the return of Oschadbank’s money and gold. They further expect a thorough assessment of the Hungarian government’s actions, which they describe as representing further deterioration of the rule of law and escalation of lawlessness in Hungary. The MEPs insist these actions must have clear and fair consequences, putting the onus on the EU’s executive body to respond decisively to what they frame as a challenge to European legal norms and solidarity principles.
