Romania stands at a critical juncture. The outcome of the first round of its presidential re-run has expos ed a stark political divide, not only within the country but also mirroring wider currents across Europe. George Simion, the 38-year-old hard-right nationalist, surged ahead with 40.6 per cent of the vote, while centrist Bucharest mayor Nicu or Dan trailed significantly with 21 per cent. Their runoff on May 18 may decide not just the presidency, but the future direction of Romania’s democracy and international posture. This election follows the annulment of the November 2024 vote, a rare and contentious move prompted by unproven allegations of Russian interference. That vote had been won by far-right candidate C lin Georgescu, whose disqualification from the current race has only fuelled political polarisation. Mr Simion, who had garnered just 14 per cent in November, now appears to have capitalised on Mr Georgescu’s support base and broader public frustration with the political........

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