August M
A diplomatic dispute has erupted between Austria and Russia following allegations of espionage linked to embassy infrastructure in Vienna. The move marks a further decline in already strained relations between the two countries.
Officials in Vienna say the issue centres on suspicious equipment installed on diplomatic buildings.
Espionage concerns
According to Digi24.ro, Austria declared three Russian diplomats persona non grata over what has been described as a “forest of antennas” on embassy rooftops.
Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger said the installations may have been used for intelligence gathering and signal interception.
“It is inadmissible to use diplomatic immunity to commit acts of espionage,” she stated, confirming the diplomats have since left the country.
Reports cited by Digi24.ro indicate Austria had previously asked Moscow to waive the officials’ diplomatic immunity, but received no response.
Moscow reaction
Russia’s embassy in Vienna condemned the expulsions, calling the decision “reckless” and warning of consequences.
“The entire responsibility for the further deterioration of bilateral relations, which are already at their lowest point in modern history, lies entirely with Vienna,” the mission said.
Officials also argued that Austria had failed to present evidence of “the alleged violations of the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations.”
Surveillance claims
Previous reporting by the Financial Times, cited by Digi24.ro, noted that while satellite dishes are standard at embassies, some Russian equipment has been used to track multiple satellites.
One large dish was reportedly repositioned around the time of the Munich Security Conference before being moved back afterward.
Sources also said Western intelligence agencies have monitored the installation of new antennas and unusual devices on Russian diplomatic buildings in recent years.
Legal gap debate
Austria currently does not prosecute espionage conducted against other countries, a gap that has drawn criticism.
According to Falter magazine, authorities are now considering legal changes to criminalise spying against the European Union and international organisations based in Vienna.
The proposal aims to address concerns that the city has become a hub for intelligence activity.
Ongoing tensions
The latest expulsions add to a series of similar actions in recent years.
Reuters, cited by Digi24.ro, reported that Austria has expelled 14 Russian diplomats since 2020, including two in March 2024 and one in September 2025.
That earlier case involved alleged contacts with a former executive from Austria’s OMV energy company, suspected of espionage ties.
Sources: Digi24.ro, Financial Times, Falter, Reuters
