Austria Expels Three Russian Diplomats Over Espionage Activities

• •Austria expelled three Russian diplomats on May 4, 2026, over espionage suspicions.
• •The diplomats used antennas for data interception from international organizations in Vienna.
• •This expulsion raises the total number of Russian diplomats expelled by Austria to 14 since 2020.

On May 4, 2026, Austria expelled three Russian diplomats, declaring them persona non grata due to suspected espionage linked to a 'forest of antennas' installed on the roofs of Russian diplomatic buildings in Vienna. These antennas were allegedly used to intercept data from international organizations, raising significant security concerns. The Austrian Foreign Minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, emphasized that it is unacceptable for diplomatic immunity to be exploited for espionage activities. This expulsion adds to a total of 14 Russian diplomats expelled since 2020, as Austria seeks to tighten its espionage laws. The Russian embassy condemned the decision as politically motivated and vowed retaliation. The incident reflects ongoing tensions between Austria and Russia amid broader geopolitical scrutiny of espionage activities in Europe. Austria's historical neutrality and its status as a hub for international organizations make it a focal point for intelligence operations.