Austria considers joining peacekeeping mission in Ukraine
Photo: Austrian Defense Minister Claudia Tanner (Getty Images)
Austria does not rule out participating in a potential peacekeeping mission in Ukraine. However, this will depend on the mission’s mandate. This was stated by Austria’s Federal Defense Minister Claudia Tanner, according to her interview with Die Welt.
Austria’s Defense Minister, Claudia Tanner, was asked whether Austria might join a Coalition of the Willing to help ensure peace in Ukraine.
"The Austrian Federal Army has proven over six decades that we are fully ready and capable of participating in complex international operations. Whether we join a peacekeeping mission in Ukraine depends on the mandate, the possibilities for our involvement, and whether our expertise is needed. But I don’t rule out that we could help secure peace in Ukraine if that happens," she stated.
Tanner clarified that Austria is not currently involved in negotiations within the Coalition of the Willing. She also rejected accusations that Austria is a "free rider" in European security by hiding behind its neutrality.
"Neutrality does not mean indifference. About 1,200 of our soldiers participate in international missions, which is a lot compared to Germany. We support Ukraine financially and with humanitarian aid. We would be ready to assist under EU Article 42.7 if a member state is attacked. If it comes to that, we will consider how we can contribute, for example, through medical and humanitarian support," she said.
Last Monday, Austrian Chancellor Christian Schaller said Austria is ready to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia.
"Vienna remains a good place to negotiate international issues in the future – that would also be a possibility for the Ukraine war," he told Euractiv.
