The Romanian Constitutional Court on May 9, 2025, unanimously confirmed the results of the first round of the presidential elections, where ultra-right candidate George Simion emerged victorious. According to a report by the European Truth, the court's decision solidified Simion's position after he garnered 40.94% of the votes in the election held on May 4, 2025. His closest competitor, Nicusor Dan, the liberal mayor of Bucharest, received 20.99% of the votes. The court also dismissed a complaint regarding the election results filed by Sebastian Popescu from the "New Romania" party, who managed to secure less than 0.3% of the votes.
As Romania gears up for the second round of elections scheduled for May 18, 2025, Simion's political ambitions are drawing significant attention. In a recent statement, he made headlines by demanding that Ukraine compensate the Romanian Armed Forces for the Patriot air defense system that was transferred to Ukraine. This system, which was provided by former Romanian President Klaus Iohannis, was not intended as a free gift, according to Simion. "Ukraine needs us; we do not need Ukraine," he stated, emphasizing that respect for the national and religious rights of the Romanian population in Ukraine is paramount.
Simion's stance on military support for Ukraine is starkly critical. He has openly expressed his intention to halt all military aid to Kyiv if he wins the presidency. During a debate, he articulated his views on Romania's role in supporting Ukraine, stating, "I will vote only in accordance with the interests of the Romanian nation and not give priority to other states." This declaration resonates with his supporters who prioritize national interests over international obligations.
In his remarks, Simion did not shy away from criticizing his predecessors who supported Ukraine. He accused them of neglecting the needs of Romanian citizens, saying, "Those who try to give money from the country’s budget, leaving the population in poverty, are a mockery of anyone who claims to be a leader of this country." His position is framed around a call for neutrality and a refusal to escalate military involvement, aligning with the policies of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Simion's demands for compensation from Ukraine reflect a broader sentiment among his supporters who feel that Romania's contributions to Ukraine's defense should not go unrecognized. He suggested that compensation could take various forms, such as contracts for the reconstruction of Ukraine or the supply of grain. "We must seek benefit from reciprocity," he insisted, hinting at a transactional relationship rather than one based solely on goodwill.
As the second round of elections approaches, the political landscape in Romania is becoming increasingly polarized. Simion's ultra-right platform appeals to a segment of the electorate that feels disillusioned with traditional political parties. His emphasis on national sovereignty and prioritizing Romanian citizens' needs resonates with many voters who are concerned about the impact of international aid on their daily lives.
Simion's rise in Romanian politics is indicative of a broader trend seen across Europe, where nationalist and right-wing parties are gaining traction amid economic uncertainties and geopolitical tensions. His victory in the first round of the presidential elections signals a potential shift in Romania's foreign policy, particularly regarding its stance on Ukraine and the European Union.
In the wake of the election results, analysts are closely monitoring Simion's next moves and how they may affect Romania's relationship with both Ukraine and the EU. His call for compensation from Ukraine and his commitment to halt military support could have significant implications for regional stability.
As the political climate heats up, the upcoming second round of elections will test not only Simion's popularity but also the electorate's appetite for his ultra-right rhetoric. With the stakes high, all eyes will be on Romania as it navigates its path forward in a rapidly changing political landscape.
