Former Presidential Candidate with Kremlin Ties Arrested in Romania

Bucharest, Romania - Calin Georgescu, a far-right politician and former candidate in Romania's presidential elections, has been apprehended by law enforcement authorities. His campaign team confirmed the arrest through a statement on social media.

Video footage captured by local news outlets showed Georgescu being escorted into the prosecutor's office by police officers. The arrest occurred as he was traveling in a vehicle through the capital city. Initially, the reasons behind his detention were not disclosed.

Georgescu had previously garnered attention by unexpectedly winning the first round of the presidential elections held on November 24. However, the Romanian Constitutional Court later annulled the results of this round due to alleged irregularities concerning campaign financing, necessitating a new election.

Investigations into Georgescu's financial practices during his campaign had been underway since December 2024. Romanian intelligence services had raised concerns regarding potential Russian interference in his electoral campaign. Following his arrest, representatives from the AUR party, which supports Georgescu, expressed their solidarity with him.

In conjunction with the arrest, authorities conducted numerous raids across the country targeting Georgescu's supporters. These operations were focused on examining the legality of campaign financing and probing into suspected far-right propaganda activities.

Following the annulment of the election, protests erupted across Romania, with thousands demonstrating in support of Georgescu, reflecting his significant backing among certain political factions.

Amid rising concerns about irregular migration, the potential inclusion of Bulgaria and Romania into the Schengen Area remains a contentious topic.

As the situation unfolds, Georgescu has announced his intention to run again in the upcoming elections scheduled for May 4. However, whether he will be permitted to do so hinges on a decision from the Constitutional Court, with the deadline for candidate approvals set for March 15.