Austria as neutral state won't support security guarantees for Ukraine – chancellor

The politician told reporters in Brussels before the EU summit, which is scheduled to discuss the situation in Ukraine, Interfax-Ukraine reports.

“It is clear to us as neutral states that we cannot give such security guarantees. Austria, Ireland, Malta and Cyprus have made it clear that they have objections,” Nehammer said.

According to him, the European Union should take into account the opinion of the EU countries with a neutral position.

“The role of neutral states must be clearly taken into account. We will definitely discuss this and find wording that will be acceptable to us,” the chancellor said.

Details regarding the drafting of security guarantees for Ukraine

The EU is working on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine. In particular, France and Germany, along with the United Kingdom and the United States, are leading efforts to negotiate bilateral security agreements. This is necessary to provide Ukraine with long-term funding, military supplies, training, and intelligence to help repel a full-scale Russian invasion, as well as to protect the country from future Russian aggression. 

The proposed guarantees are intended to provide a temporary measure to reassure Ukraine and give it confidence in the West's continued support. Nevertheless, the promises do not constitute the kind of mutual defense that NATO membership would bring.

What we know about Austria's position

On January 31, Austria and Hungary agreed not to send weapons to Ukraine. Austria fears that the war could spread to Europe and mean not only fighting but also increased migration.

At the same time, Austria noted that the country's assistance would be limited to the humanitarian sphere.

In May, the Austrian government announced funding for demining equipment in Ukraine totaling EUR 2 million.

On June 8, Austria announced that it would provide EUR 1 million to the IAEA to support nuclear safety in Ukraine.

On June 20, the Austrian Federal Government agreed to allocate an additional EUR 18 million to help Ukrainians affected by Russian aggression.

Austria is also helping Ukrainian refugees.