Austrian energy group OMV has fired an executive over alleged ties to Russian intelligence after meetings with a Russian diplomat suspected of being an FSB agent, Reuters reported, citing news magazine Profil.
Austria’s energy sector, given the country’s historical ties to Russian gas and Vienna’s role as a diplomatic hub, has become a particularly attractive target for Russian intelligence seeking influence over European energy markets.
The executive, temporarily seconded to Abu Dhabi National Oil Company (Adnoc), reportedly had access to sensitive information on both OMV and Adnoc, which are planning a $60 billion merger of their polyolefin businesses.
OMV confirmed the termination and said it is cooperating with authorities.
Austria’s Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian diplomat to Vienna, requesting a waiver of diplomatic immunity amid pending criminal proceedings. Authorities said the diplomat would otherwise be considered persona non grata.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, European law enforcement agencies have reported a significant escalation in Russian spy activities. These include recruitment of local citizens as “proxies” and the targeting of companies with access to sensitive infrastructure data.
Recent arrests across the UK, Germany, and other EU nations have revealed coordinated networks. These networks use diplomatic cover, social media recruitment, and corporate infiltration to gather intelligence and conduct sabotage operations.
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