Romania’s presidential election is heading for a dramatic finish, with fringe nationalist Calin Georgescu poised to challenge pro-EU candidate Elena Lasconi in a second-round runoff on Sunday. Georgescu,who has conducted his entire campaign on social media,has sent shockwaves through the political establishment with his unexpected surge in popularity.
However, his meteoric rise has been accompanied by controversy.Romania’s outgoing president recently declassified documents alleging a “massive and highly organized” campaign on TikTok to promote Georgescu, orchestrated by a “state actor.” The documents further claimed that Russia, which views Romania as an “enemy state,” was conducting hybrid attacks on the country.
These allegations have sparked a political firestorm, with the constitutional court inundated with requests to investigate potential election meddling. Prosecutors have launched a criminal investigation, but its timeline remains unclear.
“they are afraid,” Georgescu dismissed the evidence, which suggests hundreds of thousands of dollars were spent on his campaign, violating both Romanian election law and TikTok’s own rules. He vehemently denied being ”Moscow’s man,” deriding Romania’s “un-intelligence agencies” and portraying himself as a champion of the people against a corrupt establishment.
In a revealing interview, Georgescu expressed admiration for Donald Trump and Hungarian populist leader Viktor Orban, while referring to Vladimir Putin as a “patriot and a leader,” though he quickly added, “But I am not a fan.”
When questioned about Russia’s war on Ukraine, Georgescu initially seemed to question its existence, asking, “Are you sure of that?” He stated that Romania’s focus was on achieving peace on its border but refused to endorse Kyiv’s terms.
Asked if he agreed with the EU’s stance of supporting Ukraine “for as long as it takes,” Georgescu replied with a definitive “No.” He emphasized that Romania, an EU and NATO member, would cease all military and political support for Ukraine under his leadership.
“I agree just that I have to take care of my people. I don’t want to involve my people,” he said. “Zero. Everything stops. I have to take care just about my people.”
Georgescu’s stance on Ukraine has sent shockwaves through the international community, raising concerns about the future of Romania’s relationship with its Western allies. The outcome of Sunday’s election will have profound implications for Romania’s foreign policy and its role in the European Union.
Romania’s upcoming presidential election is causing ripples of concern across Europe and the United States. Dan barna, a prominent figure in the opposition, has warned that a victory for the current frontrunner, Mircea Geogeescu, could considerably shift Romania’s stance on the international stage, possibly aligning it more closely with Russia.
Geogeescu,a self-described university teacher with a background in foreign affairs,has made waves with his “Romania-first” message,which resonates with many voters outside the capital,Bucharest. Though, his views on foreign policy have sparked alarm bells. Barna, speaking to reporters, stated, “He wants to renegotiate everything, even our relationship with NATO and the EU.We have a lot of problems ourselves.”
Such a shift would be a dramatic departure for Romania, a staunch supporter of Ukraine since the Russian invasion in 2022. The country has provided crucial military aid, including a Patriot missile defense system, and has become a vital export route for Ukrainian grain. A change in Romania’s position would be “music to Russian ears,” according to analysts.
Geogeescu’s potential presidency would place Romania alongside Hungary and Slovakia as countries on NATO’s eastern flank with a more Russia-friendly stance. This could significantly weaken EU solidarity on Ukraine, especially as the prospect of increased U.S. support under a potential Trump administration looms.
While Geogeescu has assured that Romania would remain within both the EU and NATO, he has emphasized a focus on “negotiating” everything to prioritize Romania’s interests. He has also refused to label Russia as a security threat to the West, further fueling concerns.
Adding to the unease are Geogeescu’s endorsements of conspiracy theories, including denying the COVID-19 pandemic and questioning the moon landing. These views have raised questions about his judgment and suitability for the presidency.
Romania’s strategic importance cannot be overstated. It hosts a major NATO military base near the Black Sea and a U.S. missile defense facility. Geogeescu’s potential victory has sent shockwaves through the alliance, with many fearing a weakening of the collective defense posture.
As the election draws near, protests are planned in Bucharest, with demonstrators calling for Romania to maintain its strong ties with Europe. When asked about these concerns, Geogeescu dismissed them as “propaganda.”
The outcome of the Romanian election will have far-reaching consequences, not only for the country itself but also for the stability and security of the entire region.
**World Today News Exclusive Interview: Calin Georgescu,RomaniaS Nationalist hopeful**
**Bucharest,Romania** – Romania stands on the precipice of a momentous political shift. Sunday’s presidential election runoff pits Calin Georgescu, a social media sensation adn staunch nationalist, against pro-EU candidate Elena Lasconi.
Georgescu’s meteoric rise has shocked the establishment and sparked controversy, with allegations of Russian interference in his campaign. The World Today News had the opportunity to sit down with the controversial candidate and delve into his vision for Romania’s future.
**WTN:** Mr. Georgescu, your campaign has generated significant buzz, largely fueled by social media. Your critics accuse you of relying on disinformation campaigns, even alleging foreign involvement. How do you respond to these accusations?
**CG:** They are afraid. These are lies spread by the corrupt establishment, by the same people who have ignored the plight of ordinary romanians for years. I’m simply giving a voice to the people, and they don’t like it. As for Russia, I am not “Moscow’s man.” I’m a Romanian patriot first and foremost.
**WTN:** You’ve expressed admiration for leaders like Donald Trump and Viktor Orban. Some might see this as indicative of a shift towards populism and authoritarianism. What is your response?
**CG:** I admire strong leaders who put their country first. The people are tired of the old ways, of being controlled by unelected bureaucrats in Brussels. Romania needs a leader who will stand up for our interests, nonetheless of external pressure.
**WTN:**
Let’s discuss your stance on the war in Ukraine. You’ve been described as questioning its existence and refusing to endorse Kyiv’s terms. Can you clarify your position?
**CG:** My focus is on Romania and the wellbeing of our people. we need peace and stability on our borders, and we must prioritize our own national interests. I will not commit our country to endless support for a conflict that doesn’t directly concern us.
**WTN:** You’ve stated that Romania would cease all military and political support for Ukraine under your leadership. How do you envision Romania’s relationship with its Western allies changing under your presidency?
**CG:** I will work to build strong relationships with all nations, but Romania will not be dictated to by anyone. Our foreign policy must serve our national interests first and foremost. I believe in cooperation, not blind allegiance.
**WTN:** Some argue that your stance on Ukraine risks undermining Romania’s security and alienating its Western partners. How do you respond to these concerns?
**CG:** Romania’s security lies in its own strength and independence. We need to be self-reliant and not rely on others for protection. My primary responsibility is to the Romanian people, and I will do what is necessary to ensure their safety and prosperity.
**WTN:** This election is shaping up to be one of the most pivotal in Romania’s recent history. What message do you have for the Romanian people as they prepare to cast their vote?
**CG:** I stand for change, for a Romania that puts its people first. I offer a future free from corruption, where our voices are heard and our interests are protected. I believe in a strong, autonomous Romania that takes its place on the world stage as a respected and influential nation.
As the world watches, Romania stands at a crossroads. The outcome of Sunday’s election will have profound implications not only for Romania but for the wider geopolitical landscape.
