NBU Initiates Independent Audit of Cash Transport from Austria to Ukraine

What Happened

NBU Governor Andrii Pyshnyi announced the audit in response to an incident where seven Oschadbank employees were detained by Hungarian authorities. They were in the process of transporting cash between state banks when the Hungarian tax service intervened, leading to money laundering accusations.

Pyshnyi stated that Oschadbank employees acted within legal frameworks and adhered to international agreements. He reiterated that Oschadbank did not break any laws and that the legitimacy of the cash transport was confirmed by all necessary documentation submitted to the NBU.

Key Details

The NBU is collaborating with European partners for a thorough and transparent investigation. Appeals are being made to officials within the European Central Bank and other relevant European financial institutions.

The independent audit will clarify contractual relations and operational processes among all parties involved in the cash transport. The specific international firm chosen to conduct the audit will be announced in the future.

Background

This initiative arises from a pressing need for accountability following the incident, which has seen allegations of illegal detainment and property theft. A Hungarian spokesman confirmed that the detained individuals are facing deportation. In response, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha condemned Hungary's actions as violations of international law.

The Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has also recommended against travel to Hungary due to the unresolved situation involving Oschadbank employees. The NBU’s proactive approach to safeguard lawful operations and the integrity of financial transactions is significant as Ukraine manages its diplomatic relations under challenging circumstances.