Trump's landslide victory

How the US election is reverberating in Austrian politics

FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl is similar in his choice of words when congratulating Trump. Neos leader Meinl-Reisinger calls for a common foreign policy in Europe.(Bild: Dietmar, AFP/Joe Klamar)

The US election is causing mixed reactions among Austria's political parties: ÖVP and FPÖ reach out to Donald Trump. The NEOS want to further strengthen EU foreign policy after Trump's success. The SPÖ and Greens, meanwhile, are very concerned. 

Donald Trump's landslide victory also made waves in domestic politics. Among the first well-wishers was ÖVP Chancellor Karl Nehammer, who wants to "expand and strengthen" transatlantic relations with Trump. In particular, the fight against illegal migration and terrorism should now be "continued and intensified" with the Trump administration.

Kickl criticizes the "system"
Meanwhile, Trump wishes Austria's election winner Herbert Kickl "much strength, courage and energy for his coming term of office". In his congratulations via Facebook, the FPÖ leader also approached Trump in his choice of words and spoke of a "defeat for the system, including experts" and the "united media".

Neos leader Beate Meinl-Reisinger was more neutral in her tone and choice of words. "The citizens of the USA have decided. Clearly and unambiguously", explained the pink frontwoman. In terms of foreign policy, however, it was also clear: "Russia is our problem, not the USA's." Andreas Babler, head of the SPÖ, reacted with concern. "Trump's victory now threatens the USA with an era of nationalism and attacks on civil liberties, on the rights of workers, women and minorities," he said.

Green Party leader Werner Kogler takes the same line: "Trump's victory must be acknowledged, but it is not good news for transatlantic cooperation, global security and climate protection."