New president of Romania — a friend of Ukraine, what it means
Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan won the presidential election in Romania with 53.6% of the vote. His opponent, nationalist George Simion, conceded defeat. Dan promised reforms and support for Ukraine.
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Vote counting has concluded in Romania’s presidential election held on May 18. The Central Electoral Commission officially announced Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan as the winner — he received 53.6% of the vote, or more than 6.1 million people.
His opponent, leader of the nationalist AUR party George Simion, received 46.4%, which corresponds to about 5.3 million votes. Despite earlier claims of victory, Simion conceded defeat.
Voter turnout was high — 64.72%. The results must now be confirmed by the Constitutional Court.
In his address, Dan thanked his supporters for an “unprecedented mobilization” and promised that starting tomorrow, he will begin restoring Romania — fair, united, and based on the rule of law.
Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Nicușor Dan on his presidential victory in Romania, calling it “historic.” He wrote this on social media platform X on May 19.
According to Zelensky, Ukraine values Romania as a reliable neighbor and friend, especially for its support in difficult times. He noted his readiness to work together on strengthening the security, stability, and prosperity of both countries.
Zelensky also assured Romanians that Ukraine will remain a faithful partner capable of overcoming any challenges together.
Nicușor Dan, originally from Făgăraș, has been Mayor of Bucharest since 2020 and built his campaign on pro-European and pro-Ukrainian rhetoric. Dan pledged to increase military aid to Kyiv and counter Russian influence.
He also supports strengthening ties with the EU and NATO and increasing the defense budget.
It was previously reported that a new presidential campaign started in Romania after the previous elections were annulled due to Russian interference. Amid a scandal involving pro-Russian propaganda on TikTok, the race for the presidency intensified.
It was also reported that 18 people were detained in Romania in a case involving an attempt to overthrow the constitutional order, and prosecutors are seeking the arrest of three more suspects, including relatives of influential businessman Horatiu Potra, who are believed to be hiding abroad.