Romanian Premier Resigns as Far-Right Surge Triggers Turmoil

Romania’s prime minister announced his resignation after a Donald Trump-aligned far-right leader scored a resounding first-round presidential victory, throwing the Black Sea nation into a fresh round of political turmoil ahead of a runoff ballot later this month.

Marcel Ciolacu said his coalition was unable to move forward after its preferred candidate in the presidential contest was eliminated. He signaled that the alliance of his Social Democrats with Romania’s Liberals and another party may resume after a May 18 presidential runoff produces a winner, who will nominate a new premier.