Russia allegedly interfering in Romanian election, media says
Photo: Romanian flag (Getty Images)
Romania will hold presidential and parliamentary elections in late November and early December. Russia, in turn, is likely attempting to interfere and exert influence, according to EU Today and Digi24.
Media outlets report that political sources have once again raised concerns over the integrity of Romania’s electoral process, suggesting that Russia is actively seeking to sway the upcoming elections in the country.
Digi24 reports that Russians operate through trusted associates and intermediaries, including affiliated or Russian-funded organizations, and possibly even candidates.
Meanwhile, Romania’s intelligence service (SRI) closely monitors Russian nationals within Romania, maintaining heightened vigilance over any individuals or organizations challenging Romania’s alliance with the EU and NATO. The SRI is also tracking whether any entities or organizations are undermining the country’s geopolitical standing.
In addition to Russia, Romanian officials assess potential influence from other countries, including China and North Korea.
Another sign of interference is a network of bots and trolls on social media attempting to generate illegitimate content to promote certain candidates. In response, police have launched a criminal investigation into the activities of these “troll farms.”
The first round of Romania's presidential election is scheduled for November 24, with a potential runoff on December 8. In between, parliamentary elections are set to take place on October 1.
Romania will elect a new head of state, as current President Klaus Iohannis is not eligible to serve a third term.
As a reminder, in October, Romania’s Supreme Court disqualified a pro-Russian presidential candidate from the race. This ruling affected Diana Șoșoacă, leader of SOS Romania, a small ultra-nationalist and Eurosceptic opposition party.
