Austria Expels Three Russian Diplomats Amid Suspicions of Espionage Involving Embassy Antennae

Austria expelled three Russian embassy staff members on suspicion of spying after authorities determined that a 'forest of antennae' installed on the diplomatic mission in Vienna was being used for illicit collection of data. The expulsions occurred following the discovery of the antennae, which Austrian intelligence services had monitored for years.

The installations, described as an 'antenna forest' consisting of satellite dishes mounted on Russian diplomatic properties, could be employed to eavesdrop on other nations' satellite communications.

The government announced the declaration on Monday, with the three diplomats already having left the country. Austrian Foreign Minister Beate Meinl-Reisinger stated on Monday that it is unacceptable that diplomatic immunity be used to commit espionage. She confirmed that the expulsions bring the total number of Russian diplomats sent home by Vienna to 14 since 2020.

The foreign ministry verified that the expelled individuals were Russian embassy staff, as identified by Austrian broadcaster ORF, without providing additional details. The Directorate for State Security and Intelligence has monitored the rooftop equipment for an extended period.

Sylvia Mayer, who leads the directorate, addressed journalists about the threat posed by the installations, citing their scale and characteristics as factors of concern.

The antennae were determined to be used for illicit collection of data, according to Meinl-Reisinger. Austria declared the three Russian diplomats personae non gratae amid concerns over the collection of satellite dishes. The installations have been under scrutiny by Austrian intelligence services for years, with suspicions that they could facilitate eavesdropping on other nations' communications.

With these latest actions, Austria has now removed 14 Russian diplomatic personnel from the country since 2020.