Newsletter: Vienna International News
“Former Friend”: Van der Bellen Settles Scores with the U.S. in Diplomatic Hofburg Speech
At the traditional New Year's reception for the diplomatic corps at the Hofburg Palace in Vienna, Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen spoke clearly about the current world situation. In particular, the actions of the U.S. in Venezuela and the threats against Greenland led to a notable escalation in diplomatic rhetoric.
Meet Dmitry Polyanskiy, Russia's New Top Diplomat to the OSCE in Vienna
At the beginning of 2026, Dmitry Polyanskiy officially took office as the new Permanent Representative of the Russian Federation to the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) in Vienna. In his first keynote speech, the experienced diplomat made clear demands on Switzerland, which holds the chairmanship of the organization this year.
"Continent of Opportunity": Austria Plans New Strategic Partnership with Africa
Austria's Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger (NEOS) is pushing for a reorientation of Austrian foreign policy. With a comprehensive “Africa strategy,” the federal government wants to win over the rapidly growing continent not only as a recipient of development aid, but also as an equal economic and security partner.
Tidal Shift at Vienna Airport: Passenger Decline and Airline Withdrawal
After a record year in 2025, dark clouds are gathering over Vienna International Airport. While passenger numbers are falling and low-cost airlines are turning their backs on the capital, the management board is attempting to maintain stable earnings through cost-cutting programs. However, cost pressure at the Austrian location is intensifying massively.
