Romania’s presidential race is headed to a runoff after far-right candidate George Simion led the first round with about 40% of the vote, according to early results from the Permanent Electoral Authority.
With over 97% of ballots counted, Simion, leader of the nationalist Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), came out ahead but fell short of the 50% needed to win outright. Former senator Crin Antonescu, backed by the ruling coalition, placed second with around 20.7%, closely followed by independent Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan with 20.5%.
Turnout stood at 53%, with roughly 9.5 million voters participating. A second round between Simion and Antonescu will be held on May 18.
Simion, known for opposing military aid to Ukraine and criticizing EU policies, was banned from Ukraine last year for anti-Ukrainian activities. Despite this, he has called Putin a war criminal and supports NATO, emphasizing a defensive role for Romania.
Presidents in Romania serve five-year terms with broad powers over foreign and security policy.
TR