A top Romanian court has annulled the first round of the country’s presidential election, days after declassified intelligence alleged Russia ran a coordinated online campaign to promote the far-right outsider who won the first round.

Summary

Romania’s Constitutional Court annulled the first round of the presidential election after intelligence revealed Russian-backed interference promoting far-right candidate Calin Georgescu via social media, including TikTok.

The court cited illegal digital manipulation and preferential treatment, sparking political turmoil.

Georgescu, who led the first round despite no campaign spending, denounced the decision as undemocratic, while reformist rival Elena Lasconi also criticized it.

President Klaus Iohannis pledged to remain in office until new elections are set.

Observers warn the ruling could destabilize Romania’s democracy amidst rising far-right influence.