Following the collapse of coalition negotiations between the ÖVP and SPÖ and Karl Nehammer’s announced resignation as Chancellor and ÖVP chairman, Federal President Alexander Van der Bellen has announced plans to meet FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl on Monday to discuss the future formation of a government. Meanwhile, Christian Stocker, who was appointed acting ÖVP chairman on Sunday, has made it clear that he is open to coalition negotiations with Kickl.

Van der Bellen noted that Nehammer had informed him earlier that “the voices within the ÖVP opposing collaboration with Kickl have grown quieter.” This, according to Van der Bellen, has opened a new path. In his speech, the President did not rule out the possibility of giving Kickl the mandate to form a government. He confirmed that he had invited Kickl for a discussion, signaling a potential path toward a Blau-Schwarz (FPÖ-ÖVP) coalition.

When asked whether the FPÖ would receive the mandate to form a government if the talks went well, Van der Bellen declined to provide a definitive answer. He left the press room with a cryptic “if, if, if.”

“The Situation Has Changed”

Van der Bellen defended his earlier decision not to entrust Kickl, the leader of the strongest party in parliament, with forming a government. Both Karl Nehammer and SPÖ leader Andreas Babler had assured him they would not enter a coalition with Kickl. He wanted to spare the country unnecessary political maneuvering, stating, “Since yesterday, the situation has changed.”

Christian Stocker, previously a staunch critic of Kickl, acknowledged the shift during a press conference following his appointment as acting chairman. The ÖVP would accept any offer from the FPÖ to enter coalition negotiations.

Interim Chancellor to Be Named Next Week

Nehammer confirmed his resignation as Chancellor during a personal meeting with Van der Bellen, assuring a smooth and orderly transition. Van der Bellen is expected to appoint an interim chancellor next week.

The President emphasized his continued commitment to safeguarding the pillars of democracy, including the rule of law, the separation of powers, free and independent media, and Austria’s EU membership.

Van der Bellen “Surprised” by Negotiation Failure

Van der Bellen expressed surprise at the failure of coalition talks between the ÖVP, SPÖ, and NEOS. He noted that there had been indications of a solid foundation for an agreement, even after the NEOS exited the talks. The collapse, he said, is “a great disappointment” for many and was not his desired outcome.

Once again, Van der Bellen sought to project calm during a challenging political moment: “If I’ve learned anything in my time as President of Austria, it’s that there are always new situations.” He also took the opportunity to thank Nehammer for his service during difficult times.

Reactions from FPÖ and ÖVP

• • Upper Austria FPÖ leader Manfred Haimbuchner blamed Van der Bellen for steering Austria into a “state crisis” by tasking Nehammer with forming a government, which he deemed doomed from the start. Haimbuchner called for an end to political maneuvering and urged Van der Bellen to “finally accept the will of the voters.”
  • Tyrol FPÖ leader Markus Abwerzger expressed optimism about the ÖVP’s new openness toward the FPÖ, though he noted Stocker must earn trust after past criticism. He called Stocker’s apparent change of heart a “positive signal” but emphasized that the FPÖ would not dictate ÖVP leadership choices.
  • Styria’s acting ÖVP leader Manuela Khom described recent developments as cutting the “Gordian knot.” She emphasized the need for steady and practical leadership to address challenges. Khom expressed confidence in Stocker’s ability to manage the transition and noted that the President now holds the next move.