The Russian offensive war in Ukraine has now lasted exactly one year. The war also had a strong impact on Austrian domestic politics. National defense and security policies have now become the center of attention.
On the anniversary of the start of the war, at the request of NEOS, the Austrian security doctrine – which some experts say is no longer current – is being debated in parliament today at the request of NEOS.
Zelenskyj will give a virtual speech in parliament at the end of March
The FPÖ is using the meeting to petition for an “active peace and neutrality policy instead of warmongering”. In a month – probably on March 30 – Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy will give a virtual speech in the Austrian parliament.
“Neutrality is not a safe shield”
No party wants to change its neutrality at this point. Especially after the dramatic war events in Ukraine, one thing is crystal clear for Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner (ÖVP): “Neutrality is not a protective shield that guarantees our safety. But the technical upgrade of our troops certainly does.”
After a number of lean years, the national defense budget for the next four years was exhausted. As Chancellor Karl Nehammer (ÖVP) proudly announced, the army will receive 16 billion euros over the next four years “to make up for default”.
560 million for tank upgrades
In concrete terms, the Minister of the Army is investing 560 million euros from the budget in the tank fleet, which is already starting to show its age. This financial volume is sufficient to get 170 armored vehicles back on track. 58 Leopard 2 A4 main battle tanks will be modernized by 2029. The red-white-red leopard is the front-strong device supplied to Ukraine by other EU countries.
Digitization of 112 “Ulan” infantry fighting vehicles is also under consideration. Only through the “update” of the 17 tanks can we ensure the protection of our sovereignty against conventionally operating forces.
And as reported, Austria received the first of a total of 36 new Leonardo helicopters as part of its major Christmas procurement campaign. Cost of this “neutrality investment”: 837 million euros.
Source: Krone
I am Ida Scott, a journalist and content author with a passion for uncovering the truth. I have been writing professionally for Today Times Live since 2020 and specialize in political news. My career began when I was just 17; I had already developed a knack for research and an eye for detail which made me stand out from my peers.
