Pro-Russian far-right politician and presidential candidate in Romania, Kelin Georgescu.
Photo: Inquam Photos/Octav Ganea
US President Donald Trump’s administration is putting pressure on the Romanian authorities to allow pro-Russian politician Kelin Georgescu to run for president, Bloomberg reports.
American pressure on Bucharest
According to sources familiar with the situation, in private meetings in recent days, American officials have focused on the election issue and warned the Romanian authorities that it is unacceptable to block Georgescu’s candidacy. He is known for his anti-NATO statements and support for Vladimir Putin.
Signals from Washington
The US pressure on Bucharest became noticeable after Vice President J.D. Vance sharply criticised the Romanian government at the Munich Security Conference. He accused Romania of cancelling the results of the December elections due to “weak suspicions” of the intelligence services and “external influence”.
Behind-the-scenes talks and diplomatic disagreements
According to Bloomberg, amid rising tensions, discussions took place on the sidelines of the Munich conference between Romanian Foreign Minister Emil Hurezeanu and Trump’s representatives Keith Kellogg and Richard Grenell. Romanian Economy Minister Bogdan Ivan also met with Vance at the summit in Paris.
Despite these contacts, Bucharest has not been able to establish an effective dialogue with the Trump administration, which only deepens the diplomatic rift. According to sources, the Romanian authorities, like their European counterparts, fear that Washington’s harsh interference in the electoral process could deal a serious blow to relations with a key ally.
