Far-right nationalist George Simion, leader of the eurosceptic Alliance for the Union of Romanians, secured nearly 41% of the vote in the first round of Romania's rerun presidential election. Bucharest's pro-EU mayor, Nicușor Dan, followed with 21%, and Crin Antonescu, the ruling coalition's candidate, conceded after placing third.⁣ ⁣ The results show a significant increase in support for the far-right compared to the canceled election last year, in which candidate Georgescu received 23% before being barred over alleged Russian ties, which he and Moscow deny. Simion, who identifies as a Trump supporter, has stated he would bring Georgescu back into government if elected.⁣ ⁣ Simion supports unification with Moldova and opposes military aid to Ukraine while condemning Russia's military operation. The runoff election is scheduled for May 18.⁣ ⁣ #Romania #election #Georgescu #GeorgeSimion