Germany and Austria are engaged in an unusually tense diplomatic contest for a coveted non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council, with both countries intensifying lobbying efforts ahead of a key General Assembly vote, POLITICO writes. The race involves three European Union candidates - Germany, Austria, and Portugal - competing for two available seats for the 2027–2028 term.

On Wednesday, the United Nations will hold elections for several seats on the UN Security Council. Germany's government is campaigning vigorously for a seat.

The contest between ostensible allies in Berlin and Vienna in a vote set for Wednesday has been unusually cutthroat.