Shockwave in Romania’s Presidential Elections: Hard-Right NATO Critic Calin Georgescu Emerges as a Contender

Nov. 25 (Reuters) – Romanian hard-right politician and NATO critic Calin Georgescu is locked in a close race with leftist Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu following the first round of presidential elections on Sunday, according to partial tallies. The unexpected result has raised concerns about Romania’s strong pro-Ukraine and pro-NATO stance, which could face challenges should Georgescu gain power.

Georgescu, an independent candidate, had been polling in single digits ahead of the election but has defied expectations with his surge in support. A former member of the far-right Alliance for Uniting Romanians (AUR), Georgescu left the party in 2022 amid criticism that his pro-Russian and anti-NATO rhetoric was damaging its reputation.

At 62, Georgescu has been vocal in his opposition to Romania’s close ties with NATO. In a 2021 interview, he described NATO’s ballistic missile defense shield in the town of Deveselu as a “shame of diplomacy” and questioned the alliance’s ability to defend its members in the event of Russian aggression. His controversial views have made him a polarizing figure in Romanian politics.

Georgescu’s strong performance is a stark contrast to Romania’s traditionally pro-Western political landscape. Prime Minister Ciolacu has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine amid the ongoing war with Russia and has worked to strengthen Romania’s role within NATO and the European Union.

The unexpected deadlock sets the stage for a tense runoff election, with the potential to reshape Romania’s foreign policy and alliances. The results highlight growing divisions within the electorate, as well as discontent with the status quo.

As Romania prepares for the next round of voting, international observers are closely watching whether the nation’s commitment to its Western alliances will remain steadfast or take a dramatic turn under new leadership.