Talks to form a coalition government led by Austria's far-right Freedom Party (FPO) are set to commence on Friday, coinciding with thousands protesting in Vienna against the prospect of the country's first FPO-led administration. The eurosceptic and Russia-friendly party captured approximately 29% of the vote in September's parliamentary elections but was initially excluded as centrist parties sought to form a ruling coalition independently. That endeavor collapsed over the weekend, leading to FPO leader Herbert Kickl being assigned the task of forming a government.

Kickl noted, "First step: negotiations on the budget as of tomorrow," as demonstrations unfolded with protesters holding signs reading "Nazis out" and "History is repeating itself." The gathering occurred in the square located between the offices of the president and the chancellor, with more than 10,000 individuals participating peacefully.

Following the failure of centrist coalition talks, Chancellor Karl Nehammer of the conservative People's Party (OVP) announced his resignation, paving the way for Foreign Minister Alexander Schallenberg to assume leadership over the caretaker government.

Organizations focused on human rights, refugee assistance, and environmental issues organized the protests. They expressed concern in a statement, warning, "Our republic is at a crossroads. The threat of an extreme right-wing chancellor looms and with him an attack on democracy, human rights, judiciary, independent media and social cohesion in our country."

The OVP, previously steadfast in its refusal to align with Kickl, now indicates a willingness to pursue a coalition deal with him under interim leader Christian Stocker. Stocker emphasized the necessity for assurances from Kickl regarding Austria's autonomy from Russian influence, particularly in light of FPO's opposition to sanctions against Moscow over its actions in Ukraine.

Polling data suggests increased support for the FPO since the elections, with a lead exceeding 10 percentage points over the OVP. In a recent statement, the OVP confirmed, "We are entering negotiations with the FPO," highlighting the upcoming budget discussions as the initial focal point.

The OVP outlined its main priorities, which include safeguarding "Austria's sovereignty against foreign influence, especially from Russia," reinforcing the country's reliability within the EU, and adhering to the principles of western liberal democracy based on rule of law.

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