Karl Nehammer, Photo: Agerpress
Austria is ready to host peace talks aimed at ending Russia’s war against Ukraine. Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer confirmed this offer during a telephone conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump. The chancellor said this on Twitter.
Austria’s historical role as a neutral mediator
Nehammer recalled Austria’s long tradition of promoting international dialogue and mediating conflicts. “Austria stands ready to play a key role in finding a diplomatic solution to this devastating conflict,” the Chancellor stressed.
He also said that Trump, who is due to take office as US president on 20 January 2025, has shown interest in his experience of meeting Vladimir Putin in person.
Previous diplomatic efforts
The Austrian chancellor had already visited Moscow and Kyiv in the first weeks after Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He stressed the importance of finding diplomatic ways to end the war, despite the scepticism of many Western partners.
Austria’s position in the context of the war
Austria is a member of the European Union, but it maintains a neutral status and is not a member of NATO. At the same time, the country supports all EU sanctions against Russia.
Chancellor Nehammer remains one of the few European politicians who continue to promote the idea of negotiations with Moscow, believing that diplomacy is the only way to lasting peace.
Austria’s proposal demonstrates its desire to play an active role in resolving global conflicts and maintaining stability in the region. However, the prospect of implementing such a diplomatic platform will depend on the positions of the parties to the conflict and the international community.
