Russia expels Austrian diplomat in tit-for-tat move

Amid escalating tensions, the Russian Foreign Ministry has announced the expulsion of an Austrian diplomat, mirroring Austria’s recent expulsion of two Russian diplomats. Describing Austria’s action as “unfriendly,” the Russian Foreign Ministry criticized it as exacerbating already strained bilateral relations.

“This move further strains our already troubled bilateral relations, initiated by Austria, and undermines Austria’s standing as a neutral state, which purports to serve as a hub for international diplomacy,” the Russian Foreign Ministry asserted in a statement.

The identity of the Austrian Embassy staff member has not been disclosed, but they are required to depart Russia by April 18. The Russian Foreign Ministry warned that this expulsion was not the end of their retaliatory actions.

Austria had earlier expelled two Russian diplomats on March 13, citing activities deemed incompatible with their diplomatic roles. These diplomats were instructed to leave Austria by March 19. The recent arrest of Egisto Ott, a former official of the now-defunct Federal Agency for Constitutional Protection and Combating Terrorism, on suspicion of espionage has heightened tensions in Austria.

In response to Ott’s arrest, Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer voiced concerns about the threat posed by Russian espionage networks. He emphasized the necessity for Austria to bolster security measures against what he perceives as Russian intelligence operations within the country.