Romania's top court cancels first round of presidential election won by far-right candidate

Romania's top court has annulled the first round of the presidential election, which was won by far-right candidate Calin Georgescu. This decision follows allegations of a Russian online campaign promoting Georgescu, revealed by declassified intelligence. The court's ruling is final and requires a new election date to be set. The annulment halted voting at 951 stations abroad, where the runoff was scheduled for Sunday. Reformist candidate Elena Lasconi criticized the decision, claiming it undermines democracy. Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu supported the annulment, citing Russian interference. The court had previously ordered a recount of the first-round votes, which had validated Georgescu's unexpected lead. Concerns about potential civil unrest have been raised following this controversial decision.