Austria’s Far-Right Sees Path to Rule for First Time Since WWII

Kickl met with Austrian President Van der Bellen on Monday
Attempt to close ranks against Freedom Party fell apart

WATCH: “I have not taken this step lightly,” Van der Bellen told reporters after giving Kickl a mandate to form a government.Source: Associated Press

Provide news feedback or report an error

Confidential tip?

Send a tip to our reporters

Site feedback:

Take our Survey

By Marton Eder and Jonathan Tirone

January 6, 2025 at 12:33 PM UTC

Updated on

January 6, 2025 at 1:00 PM UTC

This article is for subscribers only.

Austria’s far-right leader Herbert Kickl received a mandate from President Alexander Van der Bellen to form a government, putting the Freedom Party chief one step closer to becoming chancellor.

“I have not taken this step lightly,” Van der Bellen told reporters on Monday. “I will continue to ensure that the principles and rules of our constitution will be upheld.”