Ukraine's Central Bank Initiates Audit of Cash Transport to Ukraine

The National Bank of Ukraine is set to conduct a detailed audit concerning the processes and contractual relationships related to the transportation of cash and valuables from Austria to Ukraine via Hungary. This announcement comes after a controversial incident involving the detention of seven employees from Oschadbank while they were transporting currency as part of routine operations between state banks.

NBU chairman Andriy Pyshnyy emphasized the importance of holding all parties accountable in this situation. He stated, "We initially felt relief when Oschadbank workers returned home, but we must now ensure that this incident receives an appropriate legal assessment and response from the European community." Reports indicate that the cash values carried by the employees remain in Hungary without legal justification.

Pyshnyy remarked that the return of these assets is just one piece of a larger puzzle; various failures in communication and legal access raise significant concerns. He highlighted the need to clarify all aspects of the incident to dispel misinformation.

Oschadbank has reported that it is pursuing the return of its illegally captured assets and insists that its employees acted within the parameters of international agreements and lawful grounds. The NBU verified all documents related to the transport and found no issues.

A decision on the international company that will conduct the independent audit will be announced separately. The NBU is actively communicating with European partners to ensure a thorough reaction to this event.

Pyshnyy has called for cooperation from Hungarian authorities in supporting the independent audit initiative. Meanwhile, within hours of the incident, the Ukrainian Foreign Ministry warned citizens against travel to Hungary amid the ongoing tensions regarding the detention and asset theft.

Earlier statements by Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha confirmed that the Hungarian authorities had taken the Ukrainian employees hostage, and they initially faced charges related to money laundering. Following diplomatic efforts, it was reported that these individuals have since returned to Ukraine.

The Ukrainian government is urging Hungary to promptly return the confiscated goods and valuables of Oschadbank while seeking support from international partners to address the incident adequately.