Romania alleges foreign intervention in presidential election

ATHENS

Romania on Thursday alleged attempts to interfere in the country's presidential election through campaigns including cyberattacks.

In a statement on X, the Foreign Ministry said authorities uncovered “malign foreign operations including illegal financing, digital amplification and cyber attacks” targeting the election, whose first round was marred by allegations of electoral violations and Russian meddling.

In an unexpected result, far-right politician Calin Georgescu, a former senior civil servant, topped the first round on Nov. 24. In Sunday's run-off, he will face Elena Lasconi, a centrist mayor.

A recount was ordered and Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who came second in the first round according to initial results, fell to a third place.

“The declassified reports show an unprecedented and significant foreign interference aimed at democratic institutions and processes,” the ministry said. “They are part of a continuous attempt to undermine Romania’s firm commitment to Euro-Atlantic values and our membership in the EU and NATO.”

The ministry said investigation continues, the allies have been informed and “we will take all the necessary steps to protect our democracy, national security and sovereignty.”

“Romania remains committed to safeguarding its democratic institutions and processes,” it added.

“Putin wants to divide us and to undermine the unity within the EU and NATO. But Europe stands strong.Together, we will protect our democracies from hybrid threats,” the ministry said on X.

ATHENS

Romania on Thursday alleged attempts to interfere in the country's presidential election through campaigns including cyberattacks.

In an unexpected result, far-right politician Calin Georgescu, a former senior civil servant, topped the first round on Nov. 24. In Sunday's run-off, he will face Elena Lasconi, a centrist mayor.

A recount was ordered and Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who came second in the first round according to initial results, fell to a third place.

The ministry said investigation continues, the allies have been informed and “we will take all the necessary steps to protect our democracy, national security and sovereignty.”

“Romania remains committed to safeguarding its democratic institutions and processes,” it added.

“Putin wants to divide us and to undermine the unity within the EU and NATO. But Europe stands strong.Together, we will protect our democracies from hybrid threats,” the ministry said on X.