Viktor Orbán faces potential criminal case over Ukrainian cash seizure

Former Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán may face criminal proceedings following the seizure of a Ukrainian cash convoy carrying millions in dollars, euros, and gold. According to a prosecutor's report cited by the Financial Times, the investigation stems from a March 6 incident where Hungarian authorities detained seven Ukrainian citizens, including a former general, suspected of money laundering while transporting $40 million, €35 million, and nine kilograms of gold from Austria to Ukraine.

Internal investigations are reportedly examining the roles of Orbán and former counter-terrorism chief János Haidu. The report includes claims from Haidu that the decision to detain the convoy was made by Orbán. Some sources suggest the seizure was a political reaction to disputes regarding Russian oil transit via the Druzhba pipeline.

Additionally, Hungarian media outlet 444 reports that Áron Orbán, the former Prime Minister’s younger brother, allegedly attempted to intercept another Ukrainian cash convoy. Correspondence suggests Áron Orbán contacted businessman Csongor Lászlóvári-Toma to discuss intercepting a cargo passing through Austria. Lászlóvári-Toma reportedly refused the proposal and alerted Austrian intelligence and political authorities. The businessman also claimed Áron Orbán had previously suggested involvement in suspicious schemes, such as military equipment procurement.