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3h ago

Romanian Presidential Election Results Challenged Over Alleged Foreign Interference

George Simion, defeated in the runoff by Nicusor Dan, has petitioned the Constitutional Court to annul the election, citing claims of external meddling by France and Moldova.

Presidential candidate George Simion reacts to exit polls of Romania's second round of the presidential election, in front of the parliament in Bucharest, Romania, May 18, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki/File Photo
Presidential candidate George Simion waits to address members of the business community at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Romania, days ahead of the second round of the presidential election redo in Bucharest, Romania, Tuesday, May 13, 2025. (AP Photo/Vadim Ghirda)
Presidential candidate Nicusor Dan speaks as he reacts to exit polls of Romania's second round of the presidential election, in Bucharest, Romania, May 18, 2025. REUTERS/Stoyan Nenov/File Photo
Presidential candidate George Simion reacts to first exit polls of Romania's second round of the presidential election, in front of the parliament in Bucharest, Romania, May 18, 2025. REUTERS/Louisa Gouliamaki/File Photo

Overview

  • Nicusor Dan secured a 54%-46% victory in the May 18 runoff, overturning a significant first-round deficit against nationalist George Simion.
  • Simion has formally requested the Constitutional Court to annul the election, alleging 'irrefutable evidence' of foreign interference by France, Moldova, and others.
  • France's DGSE has denied allegations of meddling, following claims by Telegram founder Pavel Durov that French intelligence requested a ban on Romanian conservative voices.
  • The Constitutional Court previously annulled the December 2024 election over evidence of Russian interference, leading to heightened scrutiny of the May rerun.
  • Increased voter turnout, particularly among urban and diaspora voters, was key to Dan's pro-European victory, reflecting public concern over democratic integrity.