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Metropolitan Arsenios of Austria Warns Against “Hardening of the Heart” For the 4 Years of War in Ukraine
It is a sombre anniversary that the world is commemorating these days. For four years, Russia has been waging a large-scale war of aggression in Ukraine. What began as a “special military operation” has developed into a global turning point that is not only shifting borders but also shaking the foundations of the Christian faith in Eastern Europe. In a powerful statement, the Greek Orthodox Metropolitan of Austria, Arsenios (Kardamakis), has now spoken out, finding clear words for what he calls an “ecclesiological paradox.”
Yesterday
Austria Calls for “Made in Europe” as Response to U.S. Tariff Chaos
Transatlantic trade relations are heading toward an all-time low. While U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated in his recent State of the Union address that protectionist tariffs remain a permanent part of his “America First” strategy, Europe is pulling the emergency brake. Austrian Minister of Economic Affairs Wolfgang Hattmannsdorfer (ÖVP) described the current halt to the planned EU-U.S. tariff deal as “the only correct response” and called for a radical strategic reorientation of European economic policy.
Yesterday
Between Artistic Appreciation and Kremlin Calculations: Vienna's New Role in the Shadowy World of Espionage
Vienna has always been considered the world capital of spies. But methods have changed: instead of operating in dark alleys, actors now increasingly operate in the spotlight of galleries, theaters, and journalists' clubs. A search for clues between “soft power,” Russian disinformation campaigns, and the infiltration of civil society institutions.
Yesterday
High Flying in the Innviertel Region: FACC Makes History in 2025 with Record Sales
While the global aviation industry continues to struggle with supply chain problems, Upper Austrian aerospace group FACC has announced a historic milestone. With record sales and a massive jump in profits, the ATX Prime-listed company is consolidating its position as one of the world's leading technology partners in the industry.
Yesterday
Conference in Vienna on Logistics Concerning Europe's Crisis-Ridden Supply Chains
Resilience instead of pure efficiency: Leading experts from business and science discussed the future of global trade at the Palais Niederösterreich. The focus was on geopolitical tensions, digital transformation, and the presentation of the “Logistics Oscar” to a pioneering German project.
February 24, 2026
Russian Foreign Minister Sharply Criticizes Austria for its Political Path
At a book presentation in Moscow, the former Russian ambassador to Vienna, Dmitry Lyubinsky, had strong words for Austria's current political leadership. He accused Austria of losing its foreign policy independence and of blatant “double standards” in its diplomatic dealings.
February 24, 2026
Global Solidarity in New Delhi: Austria Focuses on “AI with a Human Face”
From digital vision to global reality: Austria signed the AI Leaders Declaration at the India AI Impact Summit 2026 in New Delhi. Secretary of State for Digitalization Alexander Pröll is thus positioning the Austrian Republic as a key player for ethical standards in an AI-driven global economy.
February 24, 2026
Austria and Pakistan Deepen Economic and Migration Partnership
In a diplomatic act that underscores both historical ties and future-oriented market interests, Austria and Pakistan have opened a new chapter in their bilateral relations. On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations, Federal Chancellor Christian Stocker welcomed Pakistani Prime Minister Muhammad Shehbaz Sharif to the Federal Chancellery in Vienna for an official state visit.
February 24, 2026
Four Years After the Start of the War: Ukrainian Aid Organizations in Vienna Face Closure
Four years after the outbreak of Russia's war of aggression, support for Ukrainian refugees in the Austrian capital is facing a turning point. While Caritas is sending a message of solidarity with 1,000 candles on Stephansplatz, important institutions such as the Train of Hope Community Center are fighting for their very survival. The reason for this is a massive cut in funding by the City of Vienna.
February 24, 2026
Kremlin's Shadows in Vienna: The Russian Spy Network and “Operation Vienna”
The Grand Jury Courtroom of the Vienna Regional Court is currently the scene of an espionage saga that is taking even experienced investigators' breath away. At the center of it all is Egisto Ott, a former top official at the now-defunct Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and Counterterrorism (BVT). The allegations are serious: abuse of office, bribery, and, above all, intelligence activities to the detriment of Austria for the Russian secret service FSB.
February 23, 2026
High-tech from Styria in Russian Drones: How Sanctions are Being Circumvented
The characteristic rattling sound, reminiscent of an old moped, has become a harbinger of death for millions of Ukrainians. But there is much more than simple technology inside Russia's “Geran-2” kamikaze drones: international research has now revealed that, despite the strictest EU sanctions, components from at least 19 European companies – including Styrian sensor specialist Ams-Osram – have found their way into the Kremlin's arsenal.
February 19, 2026
A Time for Reflection: When Ramadan and Christian Lent Fall on the Same Day
A rare astronomical and religious event will mark the spring of 2026: for the first time in 33 years, the Islamic fasting month of Ramadan and the Christian Lent (Passiontide) will begin at almost the same time. While millions of people around the world practice abstinence, in Austria, the focus will be on what we have in common.
February 19, 2026
Vienna Ball Season 2025/26: A Record Year of Superlatives
Vienna has once again proven itself to be the world capital of dance in the 2025/26 ball season, which has just come to an end. With a historic record number of visitors and a massive increase in revenue, the Vienna Chamber of Commerce (WK Wien) is celebrating a triumphant outcome. But this success also brings challenges: demand from abroad is now so high that capacities are reaching their limits.
February 19, 2026
Bridges to an Uncertain Future: Infrastructure and Emerging Markets as Anchors in 2026
In a world that is undergoing a realignment between geopolitical upheavals and technological quantum leaps, investors are seeking stability. The current balance sheet of Raiffeisen Capital Management (RCM) and the analyses of the Raiffeisen Investment Forum last year paint a clear picture: the path to successful returns in 2026 will be via tangible assets and the courage to differentiate regionally.
February 19, 2026
OSCE Summit in St. Gallen Call for Action, Not Words, Against Anti-Semitism
At a time when religious intolerance and attacks on Jewish institutions are increasing dramatically worldwide, the eastern Swiss city of St. Gallen became the center of international diplomacy for two days. Under the chairmanship of Switzerland, high-ranking representatives of the 57 OSCE participating states met to counter the “spiral of hatred” with concrete political measures.
February 18, 2026
From Vienna to Silicon Valley: The Unprecedented Rise of OpenClaw and Peter Steinberger
Within just a few months, Austrian Peter Steinberger has turned the world of AI upside down with a hobby project. Now he is moving to OpenAI. What began as an experiment with “agentic AI” could change the way we use technology forever.
February 18, 2026
Trump's “Board of Peace”: An Exclusive Club Divides Europe and Austria Rejects It
The diplomatic world is looking to Washington, where U.S. President Donald Trump is hosting the first meeting of his newly created “Board of Peace.” But while preparations are underway at the White House, there is deep skepticism in European capitals. Austria has now also given the project a definitive rejection. The reasoning from Vienna is clear: they do not want to create “parallel structures” to the United Nations (UN).
February 18, 2026
Problems on the Vienna Housing Market: When the Search Becomes an Agony
Vienna is heading for a historic low in housing construction. While completion figures are plummeting, rents are skyrocketing, and the hurdles for those looking for accommodation are becoming increasingly absurd. Experts warn that without political countermeasures, the city faces a social crisis.
February 18, 2026
Glitz, Glamour, and Solidarity in Action: the Ukrainian Ball Takes Vienna's Hofburg Palace
While preparations for the Opera Ball kept the city in suspense on the other side of the Ringstrasse, a new chapter in Vienna's ball history was written on Heldenplatz that same evening. For the first time, the Ukrainian Charity Ball took place in the magnificent halls of the Vienna Hofburg. Where emperors once resided, hundreds of guests danced for a good cause under the motto #tanzendhelfen (dancing to help).
February 16, 2026
Iran and IAEA Push Ahead with Talks Ahead of U.S. Summit
Diplomatic tensions are running high in Geneva. While Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi negotiates with IAEA chief Grossi on Iran's nuclear program, Tehran is simultaneously sending a show of military force to the strategically important Strait of Hormuz.
February 16, 2026
Mafelile Christina Molala Takes Over as Lesotho's Ambassador in Berlin, Moscow, and Vienna
With an impressive track record in international economic development and a clear vision for the digital future, H.E. Mafelile Christina Molala has taken up her post as Ambassador of the Kingdom of Lesotho. From her official residence in Berlin, she now oversees diplomatic affairs for much of Central and Eastern Europe.
February 15, 2026
Broadway Glamour and Tearful Drama: The 68th Vienna Opera Ball as a Stage for World Politics and Emotions
The 68th Vienna Opera Ball once again transformed the State Opera House into the nation's “living room” – a night of diplomatic finesse, Broadway glamour, and unexpectedly deep emotions. While the usual celebrity hustle and bustle prevailed outside on the red carpet, the celebration inside had a special theme: confidence.
February 13, 2026
Austrian Chancellor Stocker Calls for European “Competitiveness Agenda” and Diplomatic Initiative Toward Moscow
From Antwerp to Bratislava: Austrian Chancellor Christian Stocker is pushing for a radical reorientation of European economic and energy policy. The focus is on falling electricity prices, preserving industry, a clear line on the Ukraine issue, and keeping channels of communication open with Russia.
February 12, 2026
Revenge in the Style of a Thriller: Hamlet's Return to Josefstadt After 70 Years
It is a theatrical event of historical significance: for the first time since 1956, when the legendary Oskar Werner shone in the title role, the "Theater in der Josefstadt" is once again staging Shakespeare's “Hamlet.” But anyone expecting a classic tragedy was proven wrong at the premiere. Director Stephan Müller stages the play as a fast-paced, hard-hitting thriller in which lead actor Claudius von Stolzmann portrays the Danish prince as a “young rebel” bent on causing trouble.
February 12, 2026
Swiss Mission for Peace: OSCE Leaders on Historic Visit to Moscow
In a diplomatic offensive to end the war in Ukraine, the acting OSCE Chairperson, Federal Councilor Ignazio Cassis, and Secretary General Feridun Sinirlioğlu traveled to Moscow. It was the first visit of its kind since the Russian invasion began in February 2022.
February 11, 2026
Innsbruck's Grand Hotel Europa Set to Glamorous Reopening in 2029
After years of stagnation, bankruptcy proceedings, and the headline-grabbing destruction of the historic Baroque hall, there is now hope for the Grand Hotel Europa. The Upper Austrian entrepreneurial family Hutterer is taking over the reins and plans to return the hotel to five-star status.
February 11, 2026
Networking among Neoreactionaries: Silicon Valley Ideologist Curtis Yarvin Visits Vienna
The far-right scene in Austria is increasingly seeking to join forces with the radical U.S. right. It has now been revealed that the identitarian offshoot “Aktion 451” is inviting the controversial Silicon Valley ideologist Curtis Yarvin to make a guest appearance in Vienna. Yarvin is considered an intellectual pioneer of authoritarianism and maintains close contacts with influential U.S. figures such as J.D. Vance and Peter Thiel.
February 10, 2026
Austria's Export Economy: Getting Through the Crisis Year 2025 with a “Black Eye”
The Austrian export industry looks back on a turbulent year. As the latest figures from the OeNB export indicator for January 2026 show, nominal goods exports shrank by 0.7% in 2025 as a whole. In real terms—i.e., adjusted for price changes—the decline was slightly more pronounced at 1.4%. Nevertheless, economists are cautiously optimistic: given the global upheavals, the domestic economy has come through relatively unscathed.
February 10, 2026
Business Crisis in the Austrian Publishing Industry: Leykam Discontinues Novels and Children's Books
Austria's oldest publishing house is facing a radical reorientation. As announced by the management of the long-established Leykam publishing house, the company will largely withdraw from the consumer market starting in 2027. In concrete terms, this means the end of the literature, children's, and young adult book divisions, as well as popular non-fiction. In the future, the publishing house, founded in 1585, intends to focus exclusively on the fields of science and education.
February 9, 2026
Russian State Television Films at Vienna Middle School
Christian Klar, principal of the Franz Jonas European School in Floridsdorf, has already given two interviews to the Russian state broadcaster Rossija 1. The Vienna Board of Education appears unaware of the situation, while experts warn against exploiting Vienna's school problems for Kremlin propaganda.
February 9, 2026
Epstein Files Reach Austria Again: Traces Lead to Vorarlberg
The publication of the so-called “Epstein Files” has caused worldwide outrage. It now appears that the network of the late sex offender Jeffrey Epstein also had connections to Vorarlberg, aside from Vienna and the Austrian passport. Emails from 2012 raise disturbing questions about stays in Montafon and Zürs.
February 9, 2026
From Vienna to the Moon: NASA Astronaut Stephen Bowen Promotes U.S.-Austrian Space Cooperation
Space is moving a little closer to the Austrian capital. Experienced NASA astronaut Stephen Bowen visited Vienna to honor the scientific cooperation between the U.S. and Austria and to get everyone in the mood for the upcoming historic Artemis II moon mission.
February 9, 2026
Russia's New Ambassador Andrei Grosov Criticizes Vienna
On Russian Diplomatic Staff Day on February 10, the newly accredited Ambassador of the Russian Federation to Austria, Andrei Grosov, spoke out in no uncertain terms. He accused the EU, and Austria in particular, of “reinterpreting history” and applying dangerous double standards in its dealings with National Socialism.
February 5, 2026
Emirati Mubadala Wins €700 Million in Signa Proceedings in Geneva
A bombshell has been dropped in the billion-dollar legal battle over René Benko's collapsed empire. The International Court of Arbitration (ICC) in Geneva has awarded the Abu Dhabi sovereign wealth fund Mubadala over €700 million. While the core real estate companies can breathe a sigh of relief, a foundation belonging to the Benko family is now under enormous pressure.
February 5, 2026
Focus on Economic Diplomacy: Meinl-Reisinger Successfully Concludes Gulf Trip
To broaden Austria's international partnerships in an unstable global situation, Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger concluded her five-day trip through the Gulf region. In her luggage: new cooperation agreements and an important tax treaty.
February 4, 2026
Change of Rector at Vienna's IWM: Misha Glenny Returns to the BBC
The renowned Institute for Human Sciences (IWM) is facing a significant change. As announced by the institute, the current rector, Misha Glenny, will step down from his position in 2026. A successor is already being sought through an international call for applications.
February 4, 2026
Career after Vienna: Dmitry Lyubinsky Appointed Russian Deputy Foreign Minister
After exactly ten years at the helm of the Russian Embassy in Vienna's Reisnerstraße, Dmitry Lyubinsky has returned to the central administration in Moscow. He now serves as one of the Deputy Foreign Ministers of the Russian Federation under Sergey Lavrov.
February 3, 2026
Heumarkt Project and UNESCO: Investor Appeals to Administrative Court Following Environmental Impact Assessment
The tug-of-war over Vienna's Heumarkt site has reached the next stage of escalation. After the Federal Administrative Court (BVwG) ordered an environmental impact assessment (EIA) for the latest project variant, investor Michael Tojner announced that he would appeal the decision.
February 3, 2026
ams-Osram Sells Sensor Business to German Company Infineon for €570 Million
The semiconductor company ams-Osram is continuing its cost-cutting measures and divesting itself of a significant division. The buyer is German chip giant Infineon, which is primarily strengthening its location in Graz with this acquisition.
February 3, 2026
Signa Insolvency: Hotel Andaz Vienna Sold for 92 Million Euros – Reorientation from April
In the wake of the breakup of René Benko's Signa empire, another high-profile deal has emerged: the luxury hotel “Andaz Vienna Am Belvedere” is changing hands for €92 million. The sale is accompanied by a strategic realignment and a brand change.
February 2, 2026
A Diplomat for Times of Crisis: Estonia's Arti Hilpus Strengthens European Alliances
In a time of growing geopolitical tensions, Estonia is relying on experience. Arti Hilpus, one of the Baltic states' most prominent diplomats, has played a key role in recent months. Following his accreditation in Vienna in the fall of 2025, he has now formally taken up his duties in Switzerland. At the heart of his mission: European security and unwavering support for Ukraine.
February 1, 2026
“Remembrance is a Duty”: Austria Commemorates the Victims of the Shoah with New Initiatives
On the 81st anniversary of the liberation of the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp, Austria sent a strong signal against forgetting. Between state visits from Yad Vashem, new dialogue projects for descendants of Nazi victims, and plans for a national Holocaust museum, it became clear that the Alpine republic increasingly sees its historical responsibility as an active mission for the present.
February 1, 2026
Meet Ingrīda Levrence, Latvia's Top Diplomat in Vienna
Ingrīda Levrence, one of Latvia's most distinguished diplomats, is taking over as ambassador to Austria. The renowned Europe expert and multiple ambassador brings impressive international experience from Beijing to Brussels to Vienna to further strengthen bilateral relations in politically turbulent times.
January 29, 2026
ICMPD and Migration 2026: A “Window of Opportunity” for Europe
The International Centre for Migration Policy Development (ICMPD) has published its eagerly awaited “Migration Outlook 2026.” While the number of irregular arrivals in the EU is falling, the organization warns against a false sense of calm. The new Director General, Susanne Raab, calls for the decisive implementation of the EU Asylum Pact.
January 29, 2026
Real Estate Market 2025: Salary Increases and Inflation Make Housing More Affordable Again
The Austrian real estate market presents a paradoxical picture at the beginning of 2026: while prices are rising on paper, home ownership is actually becoming more affordable. New data from the Austrian National Bank (OeNB) shows that the combination of strong wage growth and falling real valuations has significantly improved “affordability.”
January 29, 2026
Signa Crisis Intensifies: Concerns About “Bankruptcy Within Bankruptcy” Due to Billion-Dollar Ruling in Paris
The already complex insolvency situation of the Signa Group is now threatened by a new financial blow. An imminent ruling by the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) arbitration court could ruin the local proceedings—even before the first installment is paid to creditors.
January 29, 2026
Vienna as a Bridge to Latin America: Austria Becomes a Pioneer Donor for Urban Development
In a groundbreaking round of consultations, Austria has consolidated its role as a strategic partner to Latin America. The Republic is the world's first donor to support the Inter-American Development Bank's (IDB) new “Cities and Regions” program. This positions Vienna as a central hub for sustainable urbanization and economic cooperation shortly before the IDB's major annual meeting in Paraguay.
January 28, 2026
IAEA and International Financial Institutions Strengthen Cooperation
Representatives from the World Bank Group, the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD), and the OPEC Fund for International Development met at the Vienna International Centre of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) to discuss recent progress in financing nuclear energy projects. The meeting was part of a new phase in which cooperation between the IAEA and multilateral development banks is moving from purely diplomatic dialogue to tangible projects.
January 28, 2026
Building Bridges Across the Atlantic: U.S. Embassy Promotes Investment from Austria
Economic ties between Austria and the United States are becoming closer. Following the successful conclusion of the “Destination USA” investment roadshow event in Vienna, the U.S. Embassy has given a positive assessment. The goal is clearly defined: to support Austrian companies in gaining a foothold in the world's largest economy.
January 28, 2026
Assistance in Escape for Jan Marsalek: Former FPÖ Representative Thomas S. in Court
The legal investigation into the Wirecard scandal in Austria has reached a new stage. While Jan Marsalek is believed to be in Moscow, the Vienna public prosecutor's office is now charging a prominent alleged accomplice: former FPÖ member of parliament Thomas S. is accused of facilitating the ex-manager's escape in June 2020.
January 28, 2026
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