Austria has expelled three employees of the Russian Embassy in Vienna on charges of espionage. Authorities said the diplomats used embassy facilities for surveillance and intelligence activities. The decision followed an investigation into suspicious monitoring equipment found on the roof of the Russian diplomatic building in Vienna, which was suspected of intercepting satellite communications of international organizations.

Officials stated that the three expelled staff members were believed to be involved in the operation. Austria requested the withdrawal of their diplomatic immunity, but Russia did not respond within the given timeframe. Consequently, the individuals were declared persona non grata and have already left Austria. Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger emphasized that the government maintains a strict stance against espionage and will not tolerate misuse of diplomatic privileges.

Since the start of the Ukraine war, Austria has intensified scrutiny of Russian activities in Vienna. The country has expelled a total of 14 Russian diplomats since 2022, though around 220 Russian personnel remain active in various missions.