Stories from Vienna · Austria

Budget expert Margit Schratzenstaller from the Wirtschaftsforschungsinstitut supports increasing the tax on high-percentage alcohol. The proposal comes as the country seeks to secure 17 billion euros in EU funds that were previously frozen due to policies in Hungary. Johannes Pärterer reported from Brussels on the meeting between Prime Minister-designate Peter Madia and EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen. The reform aims to require companies that produce high-sugar beverages to contribute to the costs of treating related illnesses. Proponents argue that companies responsible for these health issues should pay a levy, though social associations and consumer protection groups have expressed criticism regarding the measures. Members of the Bundestag are being called upon to intervene in the final legislation to prevent potential inequities.

Law enforcement agencies in Austria and Albania dismantled a criminal network operating a large-scale cryptocurrency investment fraud. The operation resulted in estimated losses exceeding €50 million ($58.5 million). The operation resulted in 10 arrests and the seizure of approximately 9,000 euros in cash. Victims across Europe, including Greece, were lured by promises of high returns from seemingly legitimate investments.

A survey indicates that 94% of Austrians wish to retain the use of physical cash.

OPEC+ is planning to implement price adjustments following risks identified in the Strait of Hormuz. The regulatory body has operated for several decades to manage global oil supply. The move comes as market volatility increases due to maritime security concerns.

The move follows Austria's decision last year to restrict reunification measures in an effort to combat immigration. NGOs filed an appeal with the European Commission on Monday regarding the freeze on family reunification.

Austrian Interior Minister Gerhard Karna stated that a mobility agreement with Uzbekistan aims to facilitate the deportation of refugees from third countries. This cooperation is intended to assist with deportations to Afghanistan.

The Animalia exhibition, featuring works from Maria Lassnig to Margarita Pilottini, is currently on display in Vienna. The Heidehorten Collection showcase includes over 100 works. The exhibition remains open until August 30.

A former executive is appearing in court regarding allegations of severe care deficiencies at a senior residence in Vienna.

The health committee in the Austrian Parliament has introduced a new organ transplantation law.

Li Song, representing the Chinese mission to the United Nations in Vienna, presided over the launch ceremony of the Global Governance Working Group. The group aims to promote exchange and cooperation among member states to revitalize the United Nations. The initiative seeks to contribute to the construction of a more just and reasonable global governance system. Li Song noted that the United Nations is currently at a new crossroads facing endless global challenges. A Falcon 9 Block 5 rocket is scheduled to launch the Starlink Group 17-36 satellite constellation. The launch is currently in 'Go for Launch' status with a net time of April 30, 2026, at 02:00:00Z. The Solar wind Magnetosphere Ionosphere Link Explorer (SMILE) mission is scheduled to launch aboard a Vega-C rocket on May 19, 2026. The Vega-C rocket is set for a launch on May 19, 2026, at 03:52 UTC.