Austria expels 3 Russian staff over suspected espionage via embassy antennas

05-May-2026

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Austria expelled three Russian diplomats suspected of espionage using antennas on embassy buildings to intercept data from international organizations in Vienna. This marks a shift as Austria, traditionally neutral, takes decisive action against spying. 

Russia refused to waive diplomatic immunity, prompting expulsions. Austria plans to tighten espionage laws to protect international bodies hosted domestically. 

Russia condemned the expulsions, warning of worsening bilateral ties amid ongoing tensions following Russia's invasion of Ukraine, reflecting escalating East-West diplomatic conflicts.