To mark the first anniversary of Russian aggression in Ukraine, the National Council convened early Friday for a special session. In an “urgent request”, NEOS accused the government of failing to lead Austria out of its dependence on Russian gas. On the contrary, the Alpine Republic is one of the most dependent countries in Europe.
The NEOS had requested the non-tourist plenum. In the motivation of the “urgent” club president, Beate Meinl-Reisinger and colleagues write that the Austrian federal government has shown little leadership on how to guarantee the freedom and security of people in Austria in the future. This is reflected, for example, in the fact that no new security doctrine has been drawn up and that the country remains dependent on Russian gas and can therefore be blackmailed by President Vladimir Putin.
With regard to the latter, it is pointed out that 70 percent of gas imports still come from Russia. Austria pours more than a billion euros a month into Russia’s war chest, financing Putin’s tanks, grenades and soldiers despite alleged solidarity with Ukraine.
Expansion of renewable energy required
As a countermeasure, the NEOS recommends a rapid and unbureaucratic expansion of renewables to reduce gas demand. The gas purchase itself must be diversified. For example, in the “urgency” you are asked what target value you want to reduce dependence on Russia. In addition, people want to know when the Renewable Heat Act, the Sustainable Gas Act and the Energy Efficiency Act can be expected.
Austria must take a stand
But the NEOS also see shortcomings in the classic security policy. Austria’s security strategy predates the Russian attack on Donbass and Crimea. It describes Russia as a reliable partner. After a year of war, with hundreds of thousands dead and countless war crimes committed, as well as Putin’s constant new threats against the free world, the maneuvering is excruciating.
“Long Obsolete Interpretation of Neutrality”
The government is called upon to have the courage to explain to the population that security can only be successfully defended in a common defense “with our value partners”. A “long outdated interpretation of neutrality” is denounced. The government is then asked what benefits neutrality actually brings to national security.
Austria espionage hotspot
Finally, the NEOS target Austria as a hotspot for Russian espionage. Chancellor Nehammer (ÖVP) should clarify whether there are any attempts to criminalize espionage on Austrian soil against third countries.
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.
