Romanian politics have entered a period of instability after Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned in response to the first-round victory of nationalist George Simion in the 2025 presidential elections. The Romanian PM resigns after nationalist victory, marking a significant turning point in the country’s political trajectory and signaling potential challenges for both EU relations and regional security.
A Shock Result in Romania’s Presidential Race
George Simion’s Rise
George Simion, a right-wing nationalist and eurosceptic, secured 40.9% of the vote in the first round held on May 4, 2025. His campaign focused on sovereignty, anti-establishment sentiment, and opposition to military aid to Ukraine. His rhetoric resonated deeply with diaspora voters, especially in Spain and the United Kingdom, where he captured more than 70% of the vote.
He is now set to face liberal mayor Nicușor Dan in the May 18 run-off, after narrowly defeating the Social Democrat Party’s candidate.
Ciolacu’s Exit and Coalition Collapse
Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, who came to power just months ago, announced his resignation on May 5. He also confirmed that his Social Democrat Party (PSD) will exit the ruling coalition, admitting that the government no longer holds legitimacy following the electoral defeat.
“One of our two main objectives—winning the presidency—has failed,” Ciolacu told his party. “The current coalition no longer has the public’s confidence.”
The coalition collapse now throws Romania into a 45-day transitional period, during which interim president Ilie Bolojan must appoint a caretaker prime minister.
Implications for Romania and the European Union
Political Uncertainty and EU Concerns
The fact that Romanian PM resigns after nationalist victory raises concerns across Europe. Simion’s positioning—calling for an EU of sovereign nations, opposing weapon shipments to Ukraine, and referencing border restoration—has sparked fears of EU fragmentation and a potential shift away from NATO commitments.
Political analyst Radu Albu-Comanescu described the vote as “a radical manifestation of hostility toward the current political elite,” emphasizing its potential to disrupt European unity.
Impact on Ukrainian Relations
Simion has also been banned from entering Ukraine and Moldova, and his statements during the campaign emphasized Romanian identity and skepticism toward foreign involvement.
Despite his denials of pro-Russian alignment, his criticism of Romanian aid to Ukrainian refugees and emphasis on domestic priorities echo rhetoric often used by Kremlin-aligned figures in Europe.
Voices from the Ground
Dissent Within the PSD
The fallout within the Social Democrat ranks has been immediate. The mayor of Buzau, a long-time PSD member, criticized party leadership, saying, “We’ve embarrassed ourselves due to a series of poor decisions.”
Civil Society’s Reaction
Elena Calistru, of the independent watchdog Funky Citizens, warned that Romania now faces a “dangerous power vacuum” and called for a constructive response to public discontent.
“The outcome will reveal whether anti-establishment sentiment means anti-European direction—or a genuine democratic renewal.”
What Happens Next
The coming weeks will be crucial as:
- New coalition talks unfold to establish a stable governing majority.
- Voters prepare for the decisive run-off vote between Simion and Nicușor Dan.
- European governments closely monitor the outcome, wary of potential implications for regional security, NATO cohesion, and EU migration policy.
The fact that the Romanian PM resigns after nationalist victory signals a dramatic reshuffling of the country’s political landscape. With deep divisions between pro-EU liberals and nationalist forces, Romania stands at a crossroads. The result of the May 18 run-off will determine whether the country turns inward—or remains firmly anchored in its European future.
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