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2mo ago

Romania Arrests Six in Alleged Russia-Linked Coup Plot

Authorities accuse a paramilitary group of seeking to overthrow the government, withdraw from NATO, and install a new regime with Russian support.

The exterior of the Russian Embassy in Bucharest is pictured on March 27, 2018. - Fourteen European Union countries are to expel a total of 30 Russian diplomats in a coordinated international response to Moscow over the poisoning of Sergei Skripal in the English city of Salisbury, according to an AFP tally. (Photo by Andrei PUNGOVSCHI / AFP) (Photo by ANDREI PUNGOVSCHI/AFP via Getty Images)
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Calin Georgescu, who is accused of crimes related to the election, at a court in Bucharest on Wednesday
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Overview

  • Romanian prosecutors detained six individuals, including a 101-year-old retired general, on charges of treason for allegedly conspiring with Russia to overthrow the government.
  • The group reportedly aimed to dismantle Romania's constitutional order, withdraw the country from NATO, and establish a new government with altered national symbols.
  • Romania expelled two Russian diplomats accused of gathering intelligence and supporting the group's anti-constitutional activities, escalating tensions with Moscow.
  • The suspects allegedly traveled to Moscow earlier this year to seek backing for their plans, which authorities describe as having a military-style structure.
  • The arrests come as Romania faces heightened political tensions following the annulment of a presidential election over allegations of Russian interference.