National Security Council Met: Speed in Security Strategy Demanded
The body convened by the federal government reportedly discussed the "violation of the airspace of EU member states by Russian drones" and "hybrid threats." The Greens called on the federal government, formed by ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS, to finally present the revised Austrian Security Strategy to the National Council.
Consultations on "Violation of the Airspace of EU Member States"
In view of the current threat situation, it is not enough to make further announcements - Austria needs clarity and the ability to act, according to the argument in the press release. Already last week, the Greens had demanded the convening of the National Security Council due to Russian provocations through airspace violations of the EU.
Werner Kogler, deputy club chairman of the Greens, argued in advance: "Putin is no longer attacking Europe only in Ukraine. With drones, cyberattacks, and threats, the EU and Austria are also directly targeted. Those who continue to only announce instead of acting endanger the security of our country. The government must finally put the security strategy, including a drone protection strategy, on the table - in parliament, not in the drawer. We will submit a motion to the National Security Council today."
Defense Minister Klaudia Tanner (ÖVP) had called for more speed in the implementation of the missile defense shield "Sky Shield" (ESSI) after the drone incident. "The incidents and threats of recent days make one thing very clear: Austria and the European states must become defensible more quickly," emphasized Tanner, who now wants to intensify talks for the purchase of long-range defense systems. This topic was also reportedly discussed on Wednesday.
Central Advisory Body of the Government
The National Security Council is the central advisory body of the federal government on foreign, security, and defense policy. It consists of voting members of politics (Chancellor, Vice-Chancellor, Foreign Minister, Defense Minister, Interior and Justice Ministers, as well as members of the parties represented in the National Council) and advisory members of the civil service. The consultations are held behind closed doors.
(APA/Red)
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