Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán alleges Ukrainian President Zelensky funded a US presidential candidate and investigates a Ukrainian bank convoy carrying billions of dollars through Hungary.
Zelensky Allegedly Funds US Presidential Candidate
Orbán stated Zelensky transferred funds to a pro-Ukrainian candidate competing against Donald Trump in the US presidential election, sharing this claim in a Facebook post on March 27th.
He also commented on the investigation into a Ukrainian bank convoy detained in Hungary.
Billions Flow Both Ways
The investigation into the Ukrainian cash convoy revealed money flowed not only from the West to Ukraine, but also in the opposite direction. Orbán claims impoverished Ukraine sent billions of dollars westward, through Hungary, with a significant portion reaching the US.
Orbán believes Zelensky is using Ukrainian gold and dollars to support those backing the war in Ukraine, and is doing the same in Hungary, allegedly sending agents and aiding pro-Ukrainian opposition groups.
Hungarian Raid on Ukrainian Bank Convoy
On March 5th, the Hungarian counter-terrorism agency raided two armored vehicles belonging to Ukraine’s state-owned Oschadbank, which were transporting cash from Austria to Ukraine during a routine transit.
Seven bank employees were detained, and approximately $82 million in cash and gold were confiscated. The detainees were deported to Ukraine after over a day and banned from entering the Schengen Area, while the seized cargo remains in Hungary.
Hungary Investigates Money Laundering
Hungarian authorities have initiated proceedings regarding suspected money laundering by Ukrainian carriers. Investigative portal VSquare, citing sources close to the case, suggests the operation aimed to provoke a diplomatic crisis between Hungary and Ukraine, potentially benefiting Orbán in the upcoming election campaign.
Hungarian Elections Approaching
Parliamentary elections in Hungary are scheduled for April 12th. The opposition party TISZA currently leads Fidesz, Orbán’s party, in most independent polls.
A March survey by Median showed TISZA with a 23-point lead among decided voters, while government-affiliated polls indicate a smaller advantage for Fidesz.
