Herbert Kickl, leader of the Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ), has expressed confidence in forming a coalition government with the conservative Austrian People’s Party (ÖVP) after receiving a mandate from President Alexander Van der Bellen. Kickl emphasized the need for ‘honest politics’ and outlined conditions for negotiations, warning against tactics he views as disingenuous. He criticized the previous government for fiscal mismanagement and called for a restoration of public trust. If coalition talks fail, he is prepared for new elections as polls indicate FPÖ’s growing support.