Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned after his coalition’s candidate lost in the presidential election’s first round, which was dominated by far-right leader George Simion, who won 41% of the vote.

Ciolacu’s resignation ends the pro-Western coalition, though ministers will stay on until a new majority forms after the May 18 run-off between Simion and centrist Nicusor Dan.

Simion’s rise reflects voter frustration over economic hardship and could shift Romania toward nationalism, potentially straining EU ties and NATO stability, Al-Jazeera has reported.

His AUR party aligns with Trump’s MAGA movement and has rapidly grown in support since 2020.

Written by B.C. Begley