Ukraine urges OSCE members to curb Russian diplomatic and cultural assets in Europe
Ukraine’s deputy representative to the OSCE called for limiting Russian diplomatic and cultural facilities used for espionage, warning they enable hostile actions across Europe.
At an OSCE security forum, Rostyslav Palahusynets, Ukraine’s deputy permanent representative in Vienna, advocated for OSCE states to restrict Russian diplomatic and cultural venues that facilitate espionage and subversive acts, arguing this would curb Moscow’s hostile reach in Europe. He emphasized that while Russia’s war targets Ukraine, its intimidation tactics are aimed at the continent as a whole, referencing recent threats from President Putin and ongoing hybrid operations like airspace breaches, sabotage, cyberattacks, and information interference.
Palahusynets called for unified action: deeper sanctions, effective deployment of frozen Russian assets, and timely delivery of air-defence ammunition to strengthen Ukraine’s missile shield. He highlighted Germany’s measures following a sabotage at Leipzig Airport, which include shutting the Russian consulate in Bonn and terminating the “Russian House” arrangement in Berlin. One outlet framed these steps as essential not only for Ukraine’s survival but for the security of the entire OSCE area.
Why it matters
Limiting Russian diplomatic footholds could reduce espionage and hybrid threats against European security.
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