Austria may discuss abandoning neutrality because of Russia
27 July 18:13
The Austrian authorities are ready to discuss giving up the country’s neutral status and joining NATO because of the Russian threat.
This statement was made by Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger in an interview with the German newspaper Die Welt, "Komersant Ukrainian" reports.
Austrian Foreign Minister: Neutrality will not protect us
“It is clear that neutrality alone will not protect us. Against the backdrop of an increasingly uncertain global security situation and an increasingly aggressive Russia, Austria is protected by investments in our defense capabilities and partnerships,” said Meinl-Reisinger.
“In principle, I am extremely open to a public discussion about the future of Austrian security and defense policy. Although there is currently no majority in the parliament or among the population in favor of NATO membership, such a discussion could be very fruitful,” the foreign minister continued.
Russia accuses Austria of non-compliance with neutrality
Austria declared neutrality in 1955, when the Allies, including the USSR, withdrew from the country. At that time, Austria regained its independence, and the provision on “permanent neutrality” was enshrined in the constitution. Austria is not a member of NATO, but it cooperates with the alliance, for example, through the Partnership for Peace program.
As early as May 2023, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accused Vienna of allegedly “rejecting the principles of neutrality” and “unconditionally siding with the West’s hostile policy toward Russia.” on July 24, 2025, Zakharova repeated this assessment, pointing to the “continuous transit of weapons from Western countries” to Ukraine through Austria.
