Parliamentary elections are held in Austria: how the results may affect support for Ukraine

In Austria, on September 29, elections are held for the lower house of the parliament, the National Council. According to the results of the vote, it will be known who will form the new government of the country. The right-wing Austrian Freedom Party (APF) led by Herbert Kickl and the Austrian People’s Party (ANP) of Chancellor Karl Neghammer, which is part of the current ruling coalition, claim victory. About this UNN reports with reference to “Radio Liberty”.

It is noted that probably none of the political forces will get an absolute majority. However, according to commentators, it will be important who takes the first place. The leader of this political force will most likely get the opportunity to form a government, although if the far-right wins, it is unclear who could form a coalition with them.

Herbert Kikl is a close ally of Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán. Together with him and the Czech opposition leader Andrej Babis, they created the coalition of right-wing populists and nationalists “Patriots for Europe” – it has the largest opposition faction in the European Parliament.

Kikl opposes the allocation of funds to support the defense of Ukraine. He claimed that the main responsibility for the war lies with the USA and NATO. He also criticized the sanctions introduced against Russia.

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Herbert Kickle declares that Austria will maintain strict neutrality if he comes to power. Opponents call him a pro-Kremlin politician.

In addition, the Austrian Freedom Party advocates strict restrictions on migration, promising to refuse to accept asylum applications.

According to the latest polls, right-wing radical forces can claim 26-27% of the vote. ANP led by Chancellor Neghammer almost equaled them, it has about 25%. Together, these two right-wing forces can have a majority. Negammer ruled out the possibility of creating a coalition with the participation of Kiklya – however, he did not directly reject the possibility of cooperation.

It is noted that the current coalition government of ANP and “Greens” supports Ukraine and criticizes Russia. However, it takes a much more moderate position than some of the other EU countries, including regarding sanctions.

The Chancellor of Austria allows Ukrainian strikes on the territory of the Russian FederationJune 19, 2024, 2:09 pm • 57143 views