Austria’s Foreign Minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, defended the country’s Ukraine policy in a recent interview, dismissing criticism from the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ). She emphasized that Austria is a reliable partner and that neutrality does not mean political inaction.
Meinl-Reisinger’s visit to Kiev was criticized by the FPÖ, with its foreign policy spokesperson, Susanne Fürst, describing it as a mistake and accusing the minister of undermining Austria’s neutrality. Instead of representing a neutral state, she is acting like a representative of the European Union or NATO, the FPÖ claims.
The Freedom Party has been criticizing the government’s Ukraine policy for months, arguing that it is undermining Austria’s neutrality and contributing to a dangerous development. The party is particularly critical of Meinl-Reisinger’s support for Ukraine’s EU membership.
Fürst accused Meinl-Reisinger of reducing neutrality to only military aspects and, by financing EU weapon deliveries, indirectly becoming a war party. The FPÖ sees this as a break with Austria’s traditional stance.
Meinl-Reisinger responded to the criticism, saying that the FPÖ has a distorted understanding of neutrality. Military neutrality does not mean political inaction and Austria’s security is closely linked to that of Europe. Those who want peace must also secure it. Austria cannot simply stand by and must take responsibility as a partner to support other countries.
When asked if Austrian soldiers could be stationed in eastern Ukraine, Meinl-Reisinger expressed openness to discussions within the framework of a clear UN mandate, emphasizing the importance of a solid legal foundation and political responsibility. The government is currently in talks with the Defense Ministry.
The FPÖ has also criticized the amount of aid provided to Ukraine, with a total of around 800 million euros allocated so far, including 300 million euros for humanitarian aid and contributions through EU programs. The party is particularly critical of the recent announcement of an additional two million euros for the Grain from Ukraine program, which finances grain deliveries to the Middle East and North Africa.
While the government is implementing austerity measures, it is spending generously abroad, the FPÖ claims. When asked if more aid is needed, Meinl-Reisinger sidestepped the question, emphasizing the need for long-term support instead. Austria remains committed to its neutrality, the minister said, but will continue to contribute to stabilizing Ukraine.