Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said the terror threat was “very serious’’ following the cancellation of three Taylor Swift performances in Vienna.

Organisers cancelled Swift’s shows after two suspects were arrested for allegedly plotting terrorist attacks on Wednesday.

“Thanks to the intensive cooperation between our police and the newly established DSN (Directorate of State Security and Intelligence) with foreign services.

“The threat was recognised early on, combated, and a tragedy was prevented,’’ Mr Nehammer said on social media platform X.

Mr Nehammer called the cancellation of the concerts a “bitter disappointment’’ for fans, adding that “the situation surrounding the apparent planned terror attack in Vienna was very serious.’’

The chancellor stated that the investigation by the emergency services was ongoing following the arrests.

“We live in a time when violent methods are used to attack our Western way of life.

“Islamist terrorism threatens the security and freedom of many Western countries.

“That is why we will not give up our values of freedom and democracy but will defend them even more vehemently,’’ Mr Nehammer said. 

(dpa/NAN)