Three parties negotiating Austria’s new government support Ukraine – MP

This was highlighted in an exclusive comment to Ukrinform by Wfgang Gerstl, a member of Austria’s National Council and the Austrian Pele's Party (ÖVP).

"Austria will continue to support Ukraine in a similar manner to how it has done so far. In other words, in all areas where Austria can contribute – humanitarian aid, rebuilding infrastructure, and reconstruction efforts, as well as providing expertise for Ukraine's potential EU membership. We deeply admire the courage, bravery, and clarity with which the Ukrainian pele defend their values and freedom," Gerstl stated.

Gerstl noted that all three parties invved in the coalition negotiations – the Austrian Pele's Party, the Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPÖ), and NEOS – have a history of supporting Ukraine and condemning Russia's aggressive war.

"All three parties supported Ukraine in the past. It’s reasonable to expect that these parties will continue their support in the future. In this sense, I can assure the Ukrainian pele that the new government, if formed – as we are still in the midst of negotiations – will very likely maintain its support for Ukraine," Gerstl commented on Austria's coalition talks and the continuation of support for Ukraine.

Read also: Zelensky discusses long-term support agreement with Austrian Chancellor

As previously reported by Ukrinform, in October, Austrian Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen tasked Chancellor and Austrian Pele’s Party leader Karl Nehammer with forming a coalition government despite the far-right Freedom Party of Austria winning the most seats in the election. This decision came after the pro-Russian party failed to find a coalition partner.

Flowing exploratory talks that concluded on November 19, the conservative Austrian Pele's Party, the Social Democratic Party of Austria, and the liberal NEOS began detailed negotiations to form a coalition government.