Medvedev warns of consequences if Austria joins NATO, signals possible Russian response
Russian Security Council Deputy Chairman Dmitry Medvedev on Thursday warned of the risks that could arise if Austria abandons its neutrality and joins NATO, stressing that such a move would undermine its strategic position as a neutral hub for hosting international organizations.
In an article published on Russia Today’s website, Medvedev wrote: “Austria’s accession to NATO would strip it of its unique role as a mediator and a platform for hosting major international bodies.”
He added that it may be time to consider relocating the headquarters of these organizations from Vienna to countries in the south and east that could offer suitable working conditions.
The Russian official also affirmed that Moscow would take necessary measures against Austria if required, similar to its response to Finland and Sweden when they joined the alliance.
Medvedev pointed out that Vienna currently hosts around 20 intergovernmental organizations, but warned it could lose this critical status if it joins NATO.