In Austria’s Kickl, the EU Faces Its Next Orbán

Europe’s Next Leader Could Be from the Far Right

Herbert Kickl appears poised to take the helm as Austria’s chancellor, signaling a potential shift toward far-right leadership in Europe. If his ascension becomes reality, the European Union could face intensified challenges, particularly in its united stance against Russia and Vladimir Putin.

As leader of Austria’s Freedom Party (FPÖ), Kickl would mark Austria’s first far-right head of government since World War II. He has openly expressed admiration for Hungary’s Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, hinting at a governing style that may echo Orbán’s: fostering closer ties with the Kremlin, clashing with EU mainstream policies, and endorsing tough stances on issues like migration.

The FPÖ’s rise could create a pro-Russia bloc stretching across several EU countries. Hungary, Austria, Slovakia—led by outspoken pro-Russia Prime Minister Robert Fico—and potentially the Czech Republic (where former Prime Minister Andrej Babiš is leading polls ahead of an upcoming election) might align in a more Kremlin-friendly posture. This comes three years into Russia’s ongoing invasion of Ukraine, raising concerns within the EU about regional solidarity and strategic unity.

Kickl’s potential leadership also stirs memories of earlier turmoil for Brussels. In 2000, the FPÖ, under Jörg Haider’s leadership, entered Austria’s government coalition, prompting EU member states to sever bilateral ties with Vienna. Now, Kickl is poised to take an even bolder step. On Tuesday, he officially launched coalition talks with Austria’s center-right People’s Party (ÖVP), following failed negotiations among mainstream political groups.

If Kickl does secure the chancellor position, his rise could mark a new era of political disruption within the EU, potentially reshaping the balance of power and testing the bloc’s cohesion in facing global challenges.