Austria not ruling out joining peacekeeping mission in Ukraine

This was stated by Austrian Federal Minister of Defense Klaudia Tanner in an interview with the German publication Die Welt.

“Over six decades, the Austrian Armed Forces have demonstrated that we are fully willing and, of course, capable of participating in robust international operations. In the specific case of a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine, it would depend on the precise nature of the mandate, what opportunities might arise for our deployment, and whether our expertise is even needed. But I don’t rule out the possibility of us participating in peacekeeping operations in Ukraine, should it come to that,” Tanner said when asked whether Austria, together with other Western countries, would participate in a Coalition of the Willing to ensure peace in Ukraine.

At the same time, Tanner noted that Austria is not currently involved in ongoing negotiations within the framework of the Coalition of the Willing.

She also rejected claims that Austria is a “free rider” in terms of European security, using its neutrality as cover.

“Neutrality doesn’t mean indifference. We have around 1,200 soldiers on international missions. That’s a lot, compared to Germany, for example. We support Ukraine, both financially and humanitarian-wise. And of course, we would also be prepared to help provide assistance to an attacked EU partner in accordance with Article 42(7). If the time comes, we will naturally consider whether and how we can contribute. This could, for example, include medical and humanitarian support,” the Austrian Defense Minister said.

As previously reported by Ukrinform, Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Mariana Betsa stated that within the Coalition of the Willing, several countries have expressed readiness to send a security contingent to Ukraine to ensure reliable security guarantees. However, the format and modalities of such a deployment are still under discussion.