Austrian soldiers guard Vienna embassies, freeing up police

VIENNA – Austrian soldiers have started guarding embassies in Vienna to free up police for other duties, including preventing possible terrorist attacks.

The troopers took up their new duties Monday. More than 100 soldiers are guarding two dozen embassies and other international locations, including the United Nations office in Vienna.

Army spokesman Kurt Wagner says the soldiers are armed and can use force in emergency situations but have to call on police to arrest suspects.