The rise of the populist right in European elections continues as Herbert Kickl, the controversial leader of the populist-nationalist Freedom Party (FPÖ) appears on course to become Austria’s new chancellor after attempts to form a centrist coalition collapsed.

In the first trading day after Ukraine ceased the flow of Russian gas and oil, benchmark natural gas prices in Europe surged 4%.

POSITION ON RUSSIA The FPO opposes European Union aid to Kyiv and sanctions on Moscow over its invasion of Ukraine, arguing they violate Austria's neutrality. The OVP-led government says Austria's military neutrality, which prevents it sending weapons ...

Germany won a World Cup luge team relay on Sunday, with Austria finishing second. The news was Ukraine finishing third — and how the war-torn nation got there. Ukraine won its first World Cup luge medal in more than 16 years.

Austria’s Freedom Party, which is starting talks to lead the government, opposes sanctions on Russia and the EU’s support for Ukraine.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, seen by many as the most pro-Russia leader of any EU country, hailed a “historic victory” for the Freedom Party after Austria’s elections in September. Dutch right-wing leader Geert Wilders said his movement was “winning” in Europe.

American companies that continue to operate in the russian market have paid more than USD 1 billion in taxes to the russian budget.As Newsweek reports, citing

During these “trying times and surprising developments,” the EU should “have trust” in the strength of Austria’s democratic institutions. He added that the rule of law, separation of powers, fundamental rights, and international law “are non-negotiable” in coalition talks.

The Freedom Party and its leader, Herbert Kickl, have steadily built support by demonizing immigrants, while entering Austria’s political mainstream.

Since January 1, when the transit of Russian gas through Ukraine stopped, in Austria and Slovakia has sharply increased gas extraction from storage facilities, and Austria and the Czech Republic have resumed fuel imports through Germany.

U.S. President-elect Donald Trump takes office on January 20 having criticized continued U.S. military aid for Ukraine's fight against Russia. This may shift the onus on support for Kyiv to fall on other allies, particularly in Europe, where a changing political leadership since his election could complicate matters.

Austria’s far-right Freedom Party (FPO), which won September’s parliamentary election with 29% of the vote, is due to start coalition talks with the conservative