Austria Expels Three Russian Diplomats Over Espionage Allegations
Vienna, Austria – Austria has expelled three russian diplomats from its territory, citing espionage concerns. The diplomats, who have since departed the country, are accused of utilizing surveillance equipment on the roofs of diplomatic buildings. According to Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger, the individuals employed a “spyglass antenna” system to gather intelligence.
Confirmation of this activity came from a report by the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation (ORF), which detailed the presence of the antennas atop the Russian embassy in Vienna and a neighboring Russian diplomatic complex. The Austrian government asserts that the installation and use of the antennas constituted a serious breach of security. The russian embassy responded forcefully, issuing a statement that characterized the expulsions as “entirely unjustified, purely politically motivated, and categorically unacceptable.” The embassy warned of a “harsh response” from Moscow in response to what they deemed “completely inappropriate actions” by Austrian authorities.
The expulsion of the diplomats follows an investigation conducted by Austrian intelligence services. The incident underscores ongoing tensions between Austria and russian interests within the country.
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