Austria has expelled three Russian diplomats amid accusations they were involved in espionage, using an extensive array of antennas to gather intelligence. The Austrian Foreign Minister confirmed the expulsions, stating that the diplomats' activities were incompatible with their diplomatic status.
The allegations centre on claims that the diplomats installed a 'forest of antennas' on top of their diplomatic buildings in Vienna. These installations were reportedly used to collect information, prompting the Austrian authorities to take action against what they deem to be unacceptable intelligence-gathering operations on their soil.
While Austria is a neutral country, it has not shied away from taking robust action in response to alleged foreign interference. This is not the first instance of Russian diplomats being expelled from Austria, reflecting a growing assertiveness by the Austrian government in addressing activities deemed to undermine its national security or diplomatic protocols.
The expulsions are likely to further strain relations between Vienna and Moscow. Such actions typically lead to retaliatory measures, with Russia often responding in kind by expelling diplomats from the accusing nation. The incident underscores the ongoing tensions in European security, with intelligence activities frequently a point of contention.