Russia tried to influence the political process in Austria

Austrian security agencies have evidence that the Russian Federation tried to influence the democratic political process in Austria through one parliamentary party and a Russian spy associated with it.

As reported by the correspondent of Ukrinform, Federal Chancellor of Austria Karl Neghammer told journalists on the sidelines of a special meeting of the European Council on Wednesday in Brussels.

"It is clear that we now have evidence that the Russian Federation tried to influence the democratic political process in Austria through its special proximity to a party represented in Austria, which is also represented in the parliament, through the direct influence of a Russian spy in that party, and thus also because of political agitation. These are very serious allegations. They should be vigorously investigated," Negammer said.

He added that Russian attempts at influence would have no chance in Austria. "The results of investigations by Austrian security agencies show that the Russian campaign against democracy in Austria, against Austrian institutions has no chance. All suspicions and accusations must be thoroughly investigated. This is indeed a very serious matter," said the Austrian chancellor.

He did not specifically name the parliamentary party through which Russia tried to influence, nor did he mention the name of the Russian spy, but it is clear that he is talking about the pro-populist Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ) and the ex-officer of the Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and Anti-Corruption, who was detained at the end of March terrorism by Egisto Otta on suspicion of espionage for Russia.

Author - Serhii Kolomiets, 19/04/2024