Austrian coalition talks collapse: Chancellor Nehammer resigns

vienna - Austrian Chancellor Sebastian Kurz's coalition talks with the liberal party NEOS have collapsed, leading to his resignation. The far-right FPÖ, led by Herbert Kickl, may now have the opportunity to form a new government.

Chancellor Nehammer's negotiations with NEOS to form a coalition government and exclude the far-right FPÖ from power have failed. Critics view FPÖ as pro-Russian, citing past scandals involving former party leader Heinz-Christian Strache.

The FPÖ emerged victorious in the September elections with 29% of the votes, closely followed by ÖVP (26%) and SPÖ (23%). NEOS, securing 10% of the votes, withdrew from the coalition talks on Friday.

Nehammer had ruled out forming a coalition with the controversial FPÖ leader Herbert Kickl, although there is a faction within his party that favors cooperation with FPÖ over SPÖ. Kickl may now have the chance to form a government, or Austria may face new elections. Polls suggest that FPÖ could achieve even greater success in a snap election.