Calin Georgescu advances to runoff in Romania's presidential election after surprising first-round win

Calin Georgescu, a pro-Russia populist, won the first round of Romania's presidential election, surprising many by eliminating the EU-leaning incumbent. The final vote will take place on December 8. Georgescu's rise in popularity followed a viral TikTok campaign opposing aid to Ukraine. Previously polling in single digits, he is now positioned to potentially become Romania's next president. His views include skepticism about NATO and admiration for controversial historical figures. The outcome marks a significant shift in Romania's political landscape, with major parties eliminated early in the election process.