FPÖ warns: Meinl-Reisinger's plans endanger Austria's neutrality!

FPÖ warns: Meinl-Reisinger's plans endanger Austria's neutrality!

The FPÖ spokeswoman for foreign policy, Dr. Susanne Fürst has sharply criticized the Foreign Minister, Claudia Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS). The reason for these statements is the recent calls for a European Defense Union under central command, which she describes as a disdain for Austrian neutrality. This, explains Fürst, is accompanied by an attack on Austria's sovereignty and security. She also accuses the Foreign Minister of not speaking in the interests of Austria, but of pursuing Brussels' agenda. The FPÖ interprets the numerous armament plans as an attempt to place Austrian soldiers under foreign command. OTS reports that Fürst also criticizes the federal government for supporting Ukraine financially while the domestic population suffers from inflation. She emphasizes that perpetual neutrality is crucial for peace and security in Austria.

However, the developments surrounding the EU Defense Union come at a time when the course for comprehensive cooperation in the military sector is also being set at the EU level. On May 12, the Ministry of Defense announced that Austria was officially joining the EU Defense Union. The aim is to create an EU that is capable of acting and strategically autonomous. For this purpose, a massive expansion of military structures is sought, including joint arms procurement and support for the defense industry. The “White Paper on the Future of European Defense” acts as the central document and forms the basis for these plans. express mentions that the rationale for these strategies is the threat of possible attacks on Europe, particularly in light of the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Popular opinion on EU military strategies

Despite the government's support for greater military cooperation within the EU, there is widespread skepticism among the Austrian population. A recent survey shows that 91% of Austrians think neutrality is important and 64% are against joining NATO. However, 67% are in favor of more intensive security and defense policy cooperation in Europe. This reflects a concerned but also ambivalent approach to the topic of defense. oegfe Highlights that the war in Ukraine represents a turning point for the European security order and shows the urgency of further developing the Common Security and Defense Policy (CSDP).

The discussion about the use of military means and the strengthening of EU sovereignty is further complicated by the legal concerns of experts. Professor Markus C. Kerber has questioned the legal basis of EU defense and sees potential domestic political motives behind the involvement of the Austrian Ministry of Defense.

Austria, which has historically shown disproportionate support for EU military missions, now faces the challenge of how to maintain its neutral position in a changing geopolitical environment. Interest in an EU army has grown, as has support for joint EU military projects promoted through various programs and funds to strengthen the European defense industry.