Russia Denounces US Interference Allegations in Romania‘s Election
The Russian Embassy in Bucharest issued a strong rebuke on its official Facebook page, condemning what it termed “direct interference” by the US State Department in Romania’s presidential election. The embassy’s statement on December 4, 2024, followed a statement by US State Department spokesman Matthew Miller, which accused Russia of “malicious cyber activities” aimed at influencing the integrity of Romania’s electoral process.
Russian Embassy Denies Allegations
“The US State Department could not refrain from directly interfering in the Romanian presidential election,” the embassy’s statement read. It described the accusations leveled by Miller as “baseless and false,” and criticized the American diplomatic approach. The embassy emphasized that Russia “never interferes in the electoral processes of other countries, does not organize ‘color revolutions’ in them, does not resort to threats, blackmail, manipulation in bilateral relations of public opinion through lies and distortion of facts. These are all tools in the arsenal of American diplomacy.”
Miller’s statement not only alleged Russian interference but also threatened Romania with negative consequences if the country deviated from its current course of “unconditional support for the aggressive plans of the US-led NATO alliance.” This, according to the Russian Embassy, constituted a blatant attempt to influence Romania’s foreign policy choices by leveraging economic pressure, including the potential withdrawal of American investments.
Respect for Romanian Sovereignty
The Russian embassy reiterated its respect for “every choice of the Romanian people.” It urged Romanian politicians and media outlets to avoid involving Russia in their internal political processes. The statement underlined Russia’s commitment to non-interference in Romanian affairs and emphasized its desire for constructive relations based on mutual respect.
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Assessment 3.6 from 46 voice.
What evidence supports the accusations of Russian interference in the Romanian election?
## Interview: Romania Election Interference
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Today, we’re discussing the escalating tensions surrounding Romania’s recent presidential election. Joining us now is Dr. Elena Petrov, an expert on Eastern European politics from the Institute for International Relations. Dr. Petrov, thanks for being here.
**Dr. Petrov:** It’s my pleasure.
**Host:** Let’s get straight to it. The Romanian election saw a surprising result with ultranationalist Călin Georgescu securing a victory in the first round. This has sparked accusations of Russian interference, which Moscow vehemently denies. What’s your take on this situation?
**Dr. Petrov:** It’s a complex situation. While Georgescu’s victory was indeed unexpected, blaming Russia solely is an oversimplification. [[1](https://www.politico.eu/article/could-romania-break-eu-and-nato-elections-russia-influence-moldova-georgia-calin-georgescu/)]underscores concerns about Georgescu’s pro-Russian stance and his potential to pull Romania away from its Western allies. However, it’s crucial to recognize that domestic factors played a significant role in his success. Many Romanians are disillusioned with the political establishment, and Georgescu capitalized on this discontent.
**Host:** The US State Department has publicly accused Russia of engaging in “malicious cyber activities” intended to influence the election. Meanwhile, the Russian Embassy in Bucharest has vehemently denied these allegations. What do you make of these conflicting narratives?
**Dr. Petrov:** It’s not unusual to see such accusations and denials in geopolitical situations like this. It’s important to approach both sides with a critical eye and look for solid evidence. While there’s always a possibility of foreign interference in elections, conclusive proof is often difficult to find.
**Host:** Regardless of who or what ultimately contributed to Georgescu’s win, it seems clear that this election has rattled the West. What are the potential implications for Romania’s relationship with NATO and the EU?
**Dr. Petrov:** This is where the situation becomes truly worrisome. Georgescu’s rhetoric and policies could significantly strain Romania’s ties with its Western partners. It remains to be seen how he will govern, but his past statements suggest a desire for closer relations with Russia. This could lead to Romania adopting a more ambivalent stance towards NATO and the EU, potentially jeopardizing regional security.
**Host:** Dr. Petrov, thank you for shedding light on this complex and evolving situation.
**Dr. Petrov:** My pleasure.
