**Romania’s Far-Right Leader Challenges Election Results, Accusing Foreign Interference**
In a surprise move, George Simion, the leader of Romania’s far-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), has announced that he will appeal the results of the recent presidential election. Despite conceding defeat to pro-EU candidate Nicusor Dan, Simion claims that foreign interference played a significant role in his loss.
According to official results from the Romanian electoral authority, Dan secured 53.6% of the vote, while Simion garnered 46.4%. This outcome marks a significant rejection of Simion’s anti-Ukraine and nationalist platform.
**Simion’s Claims**
In a statement on X (formerly Twitter), Simion cited a post from Telegram CEO Pavel Durov, who alleged that a “Western European government” had asked the company to restrict “conservative voices in Romania.” Simion demanded that Durov testify before the elections are recognized as valid.
Additionally, Simion accused Moldova of facilitating “electoral tourism,” which he claims unfairly benefited his opponent. This claim follows a previous presidential election in November 2024, where evidence of foreign manipulation led to the annulment of the vote.
**A History of Controversy**
Simion’s campaign has been marred by controversy throughout its duration. He faced criticism for pro-Kremlin rhetoric and repeated calls for Ukraine to compensate Romania for its aid. During a May 8 debate, he argued that “Ukraine needs us, we don’t need Ukraine” and labeled the donation of a Patriot missile system to Kyiv as “national treason.”
In contrast, Dan has pledged to continue Romania’s support for Ukraine, strengthen ties with the EU, and uphold democratic institutions.
**International Reaction**
President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Dan on his victory and expressed hope that support for Ukraine would continue. Bucharest has played a critical role in Ukraine’s defense, signing a bilateral security pact with Kyiv and providing key air defense systems.
Zelensky invited Dan to Ukraine for talks, highlighting the importance of continued cooperation between the two countries.
**A Reversal of Fortune**
This election marks a significant reversal of fortune for Simion, who had been seen as a potential winner in the early stages of the campaign. However, his nationalist and anti-Ukraine platform ultimately fell flat with Romanian voters.
The outcome is also a victory for pro-EU forces in Romania, which have long advocated for stronger ties with Europe and continued support for Ukraine.
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