Romanian Court Bars Far-Right Candidate From Presidential Race, Deepening Political Strife

Călin Georgescu, a nationalist critical of NATO and Ukraine aid, faces allegations of foreign interference and legal violations.

Romania's Constitutional Court upheld a decision barring far-right candidate Călin Georgescu from the May presidential election, citing legal and constitutional violations.
The annulment of the 2024 election, where Georgescu led the first round, followed allegations of Russian interference through social media manipulation.
Protests erupted in Bucharest, with clashes between Georgescu's supporters and police resulting in injuries and arrests, while demonstrations continue outside government buildings.
Georgescu has denied any ties to Russia, calling the charges politically motivated and likening them to accusations faced by U.S. President Donald Trump.
Romanian far-right parties are seeking a replacement candidate, with nationalist divisions reflecting broader societal and political tensions.