Romania’s decision to cancel a presidential election due to alleged Russian interference has propelled ultranationalist George Simion, who secured 41% of the votes in the May 4 rerun, into a historic lead over pro-EU mayor Nicuşor Dan. This election has intensified political and economic instability, with Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigning and the national currency depreciating. As Simion prepares for the May 18 run-off, he aims to become the first far-right president in Romania, capitalizing on a significant voter base and backing from controversial figures like Călin Georgescu.
