In Romania, the votes have been officially counted: the candidate supporting European integration, Nikușor Dan, has won the second round of the presidential election
According to the finalized count of 100% of the ballots from all polling stations, it became clear that he secured the support of the majority of voters and will become the new head of state. Data published by the Romanian Central Electoral Commission indicate that Nikușor Dan received 53.6% of the votes. His opponent, ultra-nationalist pro-Russian candidate and leader of the AUR party, George Simion, was defeated, receiving only 46.4%. These results were decisive in this closely contested race. It is worth noting that the CEC completed the vote tally on time and announced the final figures, confirming the victory of the democratically inclined Bucharest mayor. These results are particularly significant because the battle for the Romanian presidency unfolded between two fundamentally different political directions. On one side is the ultra-right representative, traditionally inclined toward pro-Russian policies, George Simion. His political bloc, AUR, is known for criticizing European integration and openly expressing pro-Russian sentiments. It is important to note that, due to potential threats to national security, Ukraine and Moldova prohibited this candidate from entering their countries. This step was likely motivated by his political stance and public statements. On the other side is the pro-European candidate with an independent status, Nikușor Dan. During his campaign, he promised to pursue closer integration with the European Union, reform internal affairs, and support democracy. He gained support from a significant segment of voters seeking stability and stronger cooperation with European institutions. It is worth emphasizing that after the official results were announced, both global and regional political figures have already expressed their comments. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky congratulated Nikușor Dan on his historic victory, highlighting the importance of electing a leader who advocates for European values and regional stability. Meanwhile, pro-Russian candidate George Simion, acknowledging his defeat, publicly congratulated the winner, which underscores not only diplomatic courtesy but also the conclusion of political rivalry in this complex race. The future presidency of Nikușor Dan will likely determine Romania’s path toward deeper integration into European structures and its internal political stability. The voters’ final verdict suggests that the country has chosen a pro-European course, supporting a candidate who calls for unity and reforms for the benefit of the nation and the region as a whole.