Far-Right Coalition Talks Collapse in Austria, Snap Elections Likely

Negotiations between Austria’s Freedom Party and the conservatives fail over ministry control and policy disputes, leaving the country in political uncertainty.

Talks between the far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) and the conservative People's Party (ÖVP) to form Austria's first far-right-led government collapsed due to disputes over key ministries and policy disagreements.
The FPÖ, which won 29% of the vote in September elections, demanded control of the interior and finance ministries, which the ÖVP rejected, citing constitutional and governance concerns.
The ÖVP insisted any government must view Russia as a threat, clashing with the FPÖ’s criticism of EU sanctions on Moscow and its ambiguous stance on the issue.
Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen is expected to lead efforts to resolve the deadlock, with options including a renewed centrist coalition attempt or snap elections, where polls suggest the FPÖ could strengthen its lead.
The FPÖ, founded by former Nazis, has faced widespread protests over fears of eroding rule of law and minority rights, with its leader Herbert Kickl drawing criticism for his polarizing rhetoric and uncompromising negotiation style.