Austria's President to Meet with Far-Right Leader

Austrian President Alexander Van der Bellen announced plans to meet with far-right Freedom Party (FPÖ) leader Herbert Kickl amid speculation that he may ask Kickl to form a government after the collapse of coalition talks between the conservative People's Party (ÖVP) and Social Democrats. Chancellor Karl Nehammer, who has ruled out partnering with Kickl, is stepping down following these failed negotiations. The newly designated interim leader of the ÖVP, Christian Stocker, has shifted his stance, expressing willingness to enter coalition talks with the FPÖ if invited. Stocker emphasized the need for a stable government, stating that the party with the most votes should lead the formation of a new government. This political shift reflects a growing acceptance within the ÖVP of engaging with the far-right, a significant change from previous positions. The situation remains dynamic as the president prepares for his meeting with Kickl.