Overview

• Nicusor Dan officially assumed office as Romania's president after defeating nationalist rival George Simion in a contentious election.
• The nationalist AUR party boycotted the inauguration, accusing Dan of betraying national interests and legitimizing foreign influence.
• Dan has pledged to combat corruption, a key issue for many voters, and to strengthen Romania's ties with the EU and NATO.
• The new president faces the urgent task of appointing a prime minister following the collapse of the ruling coalition during the election period.
• Dan's victory is viewed as a rejection of Russian influence and a reaffirmation of Romania's commitment to European values and alliances.