VIENNA — Austria has expelled three staff from the Russian embassy in Vienna on suspicion of espionage. Authorities said the action was taken over allegations that the diplomatic premises were being used for intelligence activity.
A report Monday by Anadolu Agency, citing Austria’s state broadcaster, said the decision came after an investigation into suspicious surveillance equipment installed on the roof of the Russian diplomatic building in Vienna. The equipment is believed to have been capable of intercepting satellite communications of international organizations.
Authorities said the three accused were suspected of involvement in the activity. Austria requested that their diplomatic immunity be waived so legal action could be taken, but Moscow did not respond within the set timeframe. Austria then declared them persona non grata, and they have already left the country.
Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger said the government has taken a tough stance against espionage. Using diplomatic immunity to conduct spying is in no way acceptable, she said. Surveillance of Russian activity in Vienna has been stepped up since the start of the war in Ukraine. Since 2022, Austria has expelled 14 Russian diplomats in total, though some 220 staff still serve in various missions, she said.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report