Austria Expels Russian Diplomats Amid Espionage Concerns

Austria expelled three Russian diplomats suspected of espionage using antennas on Russian diplomatic buildings. The expulsions signal a change in Austria’s stance on foreign espionage, aligning with other Western nations. Austria aims to tighten espionage laws to protect international organisations based in Vienna.

In a significant diplomatic move, Austria has expelled three Russian Embassy employees over allegations of espionage, focusing on the use of antennas on Russian diplomatic properties. The Austrian Foreign Ministry confirmed the expulsions, as initially reported by the Austrian public broadcaster ORF.

These installations reportedly enabled the interception of data transmitted by international organizations in Vienna, a hub hosting key UN agencies and other global entities. Austria's Foreign Minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, emphasized that diplomatic immunity should not serve as a cover for espionage activities.

The action reflects a broader shift throughout Western Europe, where nations have been increasingly skeptical of Russian diplomatic activities. Austria is now tightening its espionage laws to safeguard both national and international interests situated within its borders.