During the latter part of the 19th century , as Austria - Hungary and Russia became rivals , the Austrian authorities became alarmed by the Russophiles ' activities .
Initially Austria had supported Russophilia as a counterbalance to the Poles and Hungarians .
During the latter part of the 19th century , as Austria     and Russia became rivals , the Austrian authorities became alarmed by the Russophiles ' activities .
Initially Austria had supported Russophilia as a counterbalance to the Poles and Hungarians .