The European Union breathed a collective sigh of relief on Sunday night as moderate Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan successfully fended off a strong challenge from the hard-right faction to win the Romanian presidential election. This surprising win has significant implications for Romania's political landscape and its relationship with the European community.
In the wake of Dan's victory, mainstream European leaders quickly extended their congratulations. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen expressed her delight, stating, “My warmest congratulations to Nicușor Dan on his victory tonight. The Romanian people have turned out massively to the polls. They have chosen the promise of an open, prosperous Romania in a strong Europe. Together let’s deliver on that promise. Looking forward to working with you.” This sentiment underscores the EU's commitment to supporting democratic values within its member states.
Dan triumphed over ultranationalist candidate George Simion, who had aligned himself with former U.S. President Donald Trump, adopting elements from the MAGA agenda and threatening to halt military support for Ukraine. The victory is seen as a significant win for moderate politics in a region that has seen a rise in hard-right ideologies.
Poland's center-right Prime Minister Donald Tusk was among the first to commend Dan, exclaiming, “Congratulations Nicușor Dan! Long live free Romania.” Tusk's congratulatory message came on the same night his party also secured a narrow election victory in Poland, reflecting a broader trend of moderate parties gaining traction in Eastern Europe.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed his enthusiasm for the election results. He emphasized the importance of Romania as a reliable partner, stating, “For Ukraine — as a neighbour and friend — it is important to have Romania as a reliable partner. And we are confident we will. By working together, we can strengthen both our countries and our Europe.” Zelenskyy highlighted the strategic partnership between Ukraine and Romania, which is vital for regional stability and security.
Moldovan President Maia Sandu joined the chorus of support for Dan, stating, “Congratulations, dear Nicușor Dan, on being elected President of Romania! Moldova and Romania stand together, supporting one another and working side by side for a peaceful, democratic, and European future for all our citizens.” This message reflects the longstanding ties between the two nations and their shared commitment to European integration.
European Council President António Costa also conveyed his congratulations, emphasizing the significance of Dan's win as a strong signal of Romanian commitment to the European project. He remarked, “From city hall to the table of the European Council. Sincere congratulations to Nicușor Dan for winning the Romanian Presidential elections. I look forward to working with you for a better Europe and a better Romania.”
Despite the widespread celebration among European leaders, not everyone was pleased with Dan's win. Notorious influencer Tristan Tate, brother of Andrew Tate, expressed his discontent, stating, “Well Romania we had a good run. Thanks for the pleasant memories.” The Tate brothers, who have faced legal challenges in Romania, represent the opposing sentiment to the moderate shift that Dan’s election embodies.
In conclusion, Nicușor Dan's victory in the Romanian presidential election represents a pivotal moment for Romania and its alignment with European values. As the nation looks toward a future rooted in democracy and cooperation with the EU and NATO, the support from regional allies further bolsters the hope for a stable and prosperous Romania.
