Austria has declared three Russian diplomats personae non gratae over espionage, says Reuters
Austria's Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger said on Monday 4 May that Vienna has declared three Russian diplomats personae non gratae due to suspected espionage.
Source: European Pravda, citing Reuters
Details: Reuters reported that Austria has declared three Russian diplomats personae non gratae due to an "antenna forest" on the roofs of diplomatic buildings, which could be used for espionage.
"It is unacceptable that diplomatic immunity be used to commit espionage," said Meinl-Reisinger.
She confirmed that the three diplomats had already left the country.
Reports indicate that satellite equipment installed at the Russian embassy and its diplomatic compound in Vienna has likely been used to intercept data, particularly from international organisations.
Initially, in April, Austria had demanded that Russia lift the diplomatic immunity of the three embassy staff members, but Russia had failed to comply, according to Austrian newspaper Die Presse.
Background:
- In February 2023, four Russian diplomats were expelled from Austria on espionage charges.
- In spring 2024, Austria's Foreign Ministry declared two Russian embassy employees personae non gratae, citing activities "incompatible with diplomatic status".
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