Tensions between Hungary and Ukraine have escalated sharply following the seizure of two armored cash transport vehicles near Budapest, an incident that has triggered a fierce diplomatic dispute between the two neighbors. Hungarian authorities intercepted the vehicles carrying tens of millions of dollars in cash and several kilograms of gold, raising allegations of money laundering and possible links to what Budapest described as a Ukrainian “war mafia.” The operation has sparked accusations, counteraccusations, and threats of retaliation, further deepening the already strained relations between the two countries.

The confrontation began on March 5, when Hungary’s Counter-Terrorism Centre (TEK) carried out a dramatic operation near Budapest. Acting on intelligence related to a suspected financial crime, officers surrounded two armored trucks at a gas station and detained the crew members.

According to Hungarian authorities, the trucks were transporting approximately $40 million and €35 million in cash-equivalent to roughly $40.6 million-as well as nine kilograms of gold. The vehicles and their personnel reportedly belonged to Oschadbank, a major Ukrainian state-owned financial institution.

Seven Ukrainian nationals traveling with the convoy were temporarily detained during the operation. Hungarian officials later deported them back to Ukraine, though the vehicles, cash, and gold remain confiscated as part of an ongoing criminal investigation.

Images and descriptions of the operation suggested a high-security intervention. Officers dressed in black tactical gear surrounded the vehicles and forced the occupants to lie on the ground while the convoy was searched.

The identities of the individuals coordinating the shipment have not been officially confirmed by either side. However, Hungarian government spokesman Zoltan Kovacs stated that the convoy’s operation was overseen by a former general from Ukraine’s Security Service (SBU). According to Kovacs, the general was assisted by a former Ukrainian Air Force major, and several other participants reportedly had military backgrounds.

Adding to the controversy, Ukrainian investigative journalist Vitaly Glagola identified the alleged organizer as Gennady Kuznetsov, who previously headed the SBU’s Center for Special Operations to Combat Terrorism. Kuznetsov was also reportedly associated with the elite Alpha special forces unit.

If confirmed, the involvement of high-ranking former security officials could complicate Kiev’s........

© Blitz