Pro-Russian party wins parliamentary elections in Austria.

In the parliamentary elections in Austria, the pro-Russian Austrian Freedom Party is winning. It is securing 29.1% of the votes and 57 seats, which is 26 more than in 2019, reports Politico.

According to preliminary results, two other opposition parties, the Social Democratic Party and NEOS, gained 20.9% (40 seats) and 8.8% (17 seats) respectively.

The ruling People's Party received 26.3% of the votes. It will now have 52 seats, which is 19 less compared to the 2019 results. The Greens – Green Alternative lost 9 seats (8.7%, 17 seats).

What is known about the leader of the Austrian Freedom Party Herbert Kickl

55-year-old Kickl, the Minister of the Interior (2017-2019) and a member of the National Council of Austria (2006-2017), is the leader of the right-wing populist and pro-Russian Austrian Freedom Party (FPÖ). He opposes allocating money for military aid to Ukraine and criticizes sanctions against Russia.

Herbert Kickl considers the Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban to be his inspiration.

"Hungary is an example for me," Kickl repeatedly told his voters.

He is part of the nationalists and eurosceptics coalition "Patriots for Europe" in the European Parliament.

Source: TSN