Konstantin Kuhle, FDP parliamentary group vice-president and member of the German Bundestag’s secret service control committee, explained this to the “Handelsblatt”. “An FPÖ entry into government would mean that Germany would also have to put its intelligence cooperation with Austria to the test.”
FPÖ attitude towards Russia
Kuhle cited the FPÖ’s attitude towards Russia as a reason. “In view of the massive threat from Russia to peace and stability in Europe, we cannot allow relevant information to be passed on directly to Russia.” The chairman of the intelligence committee, Konstantin von Notz from the Greens, argued similarly: “In times of a war of aggression in Europe that violates international law and massive influence and disinformation campaigns, including and especially from Russia, the FPÖ in government responsibility would certainly be a significant security problem for the Austrian authorities, but also for them Partner.”
CDU security politician Roderich Kiesewetter described a possible FPÖ government participation as an “absolute burden on intelligence cooperation with Austria.” The Freedom Party would represent Moscow’s interests and become “at least Russia’s pawn.” In this way, the hybrid war will be “brought to Austria and Europe.” Against this background, he would advise against intelligence cooperation if the FPÖ is represented in the next government.
