Paul Tovey dedicated himself to a vital mission: delivering humanitarian aid to Ukraine. He volunteered tirelessly, driving supplies and supporting those devastated by war, yet found himself facing a bewildering crisis back home – his UK bank accounts were abruptly closed.
The initial explanation from Santander was baffling. They claimed Ukraine was sanctioned, a statement demonstrably false according to the UK government. After providing proof, the bank shifted its reasoning, suggesting concerns about Russia, despite Tovey’s clear explanation that his work focused on western Ukraine, far from occupied territories.
Tovey, with a heavy heart, complied with the bank’s requests for information, a compromise made despite serious data security concerns. He believed he had resolved the issue, only to receive three letters at the end of last month, informing him that his current, credit card, and joint accounts would be closed on December 29th.
Despite possessing an excellent credit rating and no financial irregularities, Tovey was left without explanation. Santander simply stated they could not currently offer him banking services, a vague response that offered no recourse. He felt the bank was unfairly penalizing him due to the perceived risk associated with his work in Ukraine.
Santander had previously acknowledged the complexities of transactions involving non-government controlled regions of Ukraine, but offered no specific reason for de-banking Tovey. They maintained the decision was legal and aligned with their terms and conditions, a cold comfort to a man actively aiding a nation in crisis.
Tovey’s work centered around western cities like Ternopil and Kyiv, providing medical rehabilitation, supporting displaced families, and delivering essential vehicles through the Wheels of Victory foundation. He regularly traveled into the war zone, facing hardship and danger to offer tangible support.
From his home in Kent, Tovey expressed his frustration. He argued that the banking system’s “paranoia” regarding Russian sanctions was unfairly impacting those genuinely helping Ukraine. He feared a wider trend of banks shutting down accounts linked to the country, mirroring reports from 2023.
The British-Ukrainian Chamber of Commerce had previously warned of Western banks closing accounts over even single transactions connected to Ukraine, prompting calls for a government review. This review, however, focused on individuals rather than businesses, leaving volunteers like Tovey vulnerable.
Tovey wasn’t alone. Other British nationals supporting Ukraine, including war veteran Shaun Pinner, had also experienced similar de-banking. This clampdown occurred despite the UK’s significant financial commitment to Ukraine, totaling £21.8 billion since the start of the full-scale invasion.
Despite the financial upheaval, Tovey remains resolute in his commitment to Ukraine. He recognizes the profound injustice faced by the Ukrainian people, who simply desire a normal life free from the constant threat of violence. Their peaceful aspirations resonate deeply with him.
Santander defends its actions, stating accounts can be closed for various reasons, including charitable donations without proper registration or transactions in prohibited regions. They insist all closures adhere to their terms and conditions and legal obligations.
Tovey’s story highlights a troubling disconnect between the UK’s stated support for Ukraine and the actions of its financial institutions. It raises critical questions about fairness, due diligence, and the unintended consequences of broad sanctions policies.
