Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu announced his resignation after his government-backed candidate failed to advance in the presidential election, which saw far-right leader George Simion win the first round with 40.96% of the vote.
Ciolacu admitted the government had lost public trust and said his Social Democratic Party (PSD) would withdraw from the ruling coalition. Simion, leader of the nationalist AUR party, will face Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan (20.99%) in the May 18 runoff. The coalition’s candidate Crin Antonescu came third with 20.07%.
Simion, who opposes EU policies and military aid to Ukraine, gained support after the previous election was annulled over alleged Russian interference.
TR