Pro-European voters across Romania celebrated the defeat of Simion, a nationalist populist known for his pro-Russian rhetoric. This result was made possible by a record-breaking voter turnout — the highest in 20 years — with 65% of eligible voters participating in the second round.

Ultranationalist George Simion was the favorite in Romania’s runoff, but concerns over the country’s future sparked record turnout. Pro-EU Nicușor Dan’s win brings relief to Brussels and Kyiv.