US raises alarm over potential Russian interference in Romanian presidential election
The United States has expressed concern over Romania's presidential election amid reports of Russian interference. Declassified documents reveal that pro-Russia candidate Calin Georgescu gained significant support through social media manipulation, surprising many after polling in single digits. Georgescu won the first round of voting on November 24. He advocates for ending Romanian aid to Ukraine and has praised Russian President Vladimir Putin. The U.S. State Department highlighted the potential risks to Romania's ties with the West. Romanians will vote in a runoff election on Sunday, where Georgescu could face pro-European candidate Elena Lasconi. The U.S. warns that foreign influence could undermine Romania's progress within NATO and the European Union.