Radio România Internațional

Tag: Ilie Bolojan

  • NATO prepares for different scenarios

    NATO prepares for different scenarios

    According to a famous joke, NATO was created, a few years after the crushing of Nazism, to keep the Germans on their toes, the Soviets out of Europe and the Americans in. Three quarters of a century later, the joke has outlived its original context. Post-Soviet Russia has turned up the aggression again after regaining its murderous frenzy and appetite for new territories. Under the new Republican administration led by President Donald Trump, the United States seem less and less interested in guaranteeing the security of Europe, criticizing it for not investing enough in its own defense. These developments are creating anxiety especially on NATO’s Eastern Flank, in countries bordering either Russia or Ukraine invaded by Russian troops. This is also the case of Romania, which shares almost 650 kilometers of border with Ukraine.

     

    In a message meant to reassure his fellow countrymen, the interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, said that NATO has prepared military scenarios for any security outcome that would affect member states, including those on the Eastern Flank. “There are, let’s say, strategic plans designed by NATO, including by the Romanian Army”, Ilie Bolojan said. The president recalled that France is designated as the framework nation for the defense of Romania and has troops on the ground. “The problem that arises is either an increase in the contribution of European countries in the current security context, which means that very little will change, or, in the second scenario, more responsibility from European countries, not just European Union members”, the interim president further noted. “In order to ensure its defense, Europe needs the United States of America”, Ilie Bolojan argued.

     

    According to Radio Romania’s correspondent in Brussels, citing NATO sources, the United States might withdraw part of its military deployed in Europe as early as this year. The move, the same sources add, would not aim to question the Alliance itself, but would be an incentive for Europeans to get involved more in deterrence and defense efforts. Washington currently has about 160,000 troops deployed outside the United States, and most of them, about 35,000, are stationed in Germany. According to local media, due to uncertainty generated by the Trump administration, the major groups in the European Parliament are preparing a document that will call on the EU to promote the creation of a so-called European pillar within NATO, which would act autonomously, whenever necessary. This group might also include Great Britain, Turkey, Norway and Iceland, states that are not currently in the European Union, but are otherwise members of NATO. (VP)

  • March 6, 2025 UPDATE 3

    March 6, 2025 UPDATE 3

    SUMMIT – The interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, on Thursday called for an increase of Europe’s role in maintaining peace on the continent, support for Ukraine and the increase of defense spending. On the sidelines of the special EU summit hosted by Brussels, president Bolojan discussed with the president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, Romania’s priorities in implementing the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and the increase of the absorption of European funds. “We also conveyed our support for the initiatives of the European Commission in the field of defense and competitiveness”, Ilie Bolojan wrote on social media. Upon meeting with the president of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, Ilie Bolojan said that Romania intends to continue the “excellent collaboration” with the community legislature. Ilie Bolojan attended an extraordinary European Council summit, where the heads of state and government of the European Union pledged to support Ukraine, in the context of US President Donald Trump’s foreign policy, and to spend more on defense. The head of the European Commission said that Europe is at a crossroads and stressed the importance of Europe defending itself through a massive increase in defense spending but also by helping Ukraine achieve a lasting and fair peace. The European Commission president presented an €800 billion EUR package devoted to defense investments. In turn, the president of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, assured European leaders that Parliament can move quickly and efficiently to respond to the unprecedented security challenges we see today. “Peace must guarantee freedom for Ukraine, security for Europe and deterrence for those who believe they can take it by force”, the European Parliament president further noted. Attending the summit in Brussels, the president of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, thanked the EU for its strong support.

     

    TREASON – Prosecutors with the Directorate Investigating Organized Crime and Terrorism Offences (DIICOT) have detained six individuals over charges of forming an organized crime group and treason. According to DIICOT, the defendants apparently set up a paramilitary organization and negotiated Romania’s exit from NATO with Russian agents. Prosecutors say that the organized crime group was structured like a military-type organization, with management ranks and operative personnel. Radu Theodoru, a retired general and 101-year-old war veteran, was also among the organization’s leaders. The group used online platforms to release video materials and recruit members. At the same time, it took steps to hold negotiations with foreign political and military actors regarding the replacing of the current constitutional order. In January, DIICOT also says, 2 of the defendants travelled to Moscow, where they came into contact with people willing to support the organization’s efforts to take over power in Romania.

     

    APPEAL – Magistrates on Thursday dismissed as unfounded the complaint filed by Călin Georgescu against the judicial control measure, in the investigation where he faces several charges. A former independent candidate in last year’s presidential election, Călin Georgescu was last week placed under judicial control by the Prosecutor General’s Office for a period of 60 days. He is subject to a number of interdictions, including the right to leave the country without the approval of judicial authorities. At the same time, Georgescu cannot post content of a legionary, fascist, anti-Semitic, racist or xenophobic nature on social media. Georgescu is being prosecuted for committing six crimes, the most serious being that of inciting actions against the constitutional order. Investigators claim that Georgescu had come up with a plan to destabilize the country after the Constitutional Court annulled the presidential election in December. The first round was won by Călin Georgescu. Meanwhile, prosecutors have raided new locations linked to the financing of his election campaign. Also on Thursday, the European Court of Human Rights rejected Călin Georgescu’s appeal challenging the annulment of the presidential election in Romania in December 2024. The decision is unanimous and final. Călin Georgescu recently announced that he will submit his candidacy for the presidential election in May with the Central Electoral Bureau on Friday.

     

    GOVERNMENT The Romanian government on Thursday passed several emergency orders, concerning, among other things, the healthcare reform and the spending of EU funds. In the field of healthcare, the government wants to improve regulations on public medical care for freelancers, on the taxation of medicines, on the organization and operation of medical offices and the granting of sick leaves. In a separate emergency order, the Romanian government earmarks the financing for certain local authorities to complete works to extend and upgrade natural gas infrastructure. Finally, the cabinet has also approved the amount of this year’s state aid for the livestock sector.

     

    MOLDOVA – The Republic of Moldova has been accepted into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the decision reflecting a confirmation of significant progress in the process of accession to the European Union, the National Bank of the Republic of Moldova has announced. According to the document, SEPA membership will facilitate faster, safer and more accessible international payments in Euro for Moldovan citizens and businesses. “Today’s decision consolidates our irreversible path towards European accession”, said the Governor of the National Bank of the Republic of Moldova, Anca Dragu. SEPA is a European system that facilitates cross-border payments in Euro, eliminating the differences between national and international payments. It includes all European Union countries, as well as other states. (VP)

  • March 6, 2025 UPDATE 2

    March 6, 2025 UPDATE 2

    PRESIDENCY – On a visit to Brussels, Romania’s interim president Ilie Bolojan on Thursday discussed with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen regarding Romania’s priorities in implementing the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and increasing the absorption of European funds. “We also expressed our support for the European Commission’s initiatives in the field of defense and competitiveness”, Ilie Bolojan wrote on social media. The Romanian president also met with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and the two officials discussed opportunities to strengthen the Eastern Flank. Ilie Bolojan is attending an extraordinary European Council, where heads of state and government from the European Union are discussing support for Ukraine and the situation of European defense. Ahead of the summit, the European Commission president said that Europe is at a crossroads and stressed the importance of Europe defending itself through a massive increase in defense spending but also by helping Ukraine achieve a lasting and fair peace. Ursula von der Leyen proposed a European armament plan, with defense investments of up to €800 billion. In turn, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, assured European leaders that the European Parliament can move quickly and effectively to respond to present-day unprecedented security challenges. “Peace must guarantee freedom for Ukraine, security for Europe and deterrence for those who think they can take it by force”, president Metsola added. Present in Brussels, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the EU for its strong support.

     

    APPEAL – Magistrates on Thursday dismissed as unfounded the complaint filed by Călin Georgescu against the judicial control measure, in the investigation where he faces several charges. A former independent candidate in last year’s presidential elections, Călin Georgescu was last week placed under judicial control by the Prosecutor General’s Office for a period of 60 days. He is subject to a number of interdictions, including the right to leave the country without the approval of judicial authorities. At the same time, Georgescu cannot post content of a legionary, fascist, anti-Semitic, racist or xenophobic nature on social media. Georgescu is being prosecuted for committing six crimes, the most serious being that of inciting actions against the constitutional order. Investigators claim that he Georgescu had come up with a plan to destabilize the country after the Constitutional Court annulled the presidential election in December. The first round was won by Călin Georgescu. Meanwhile, prosecutors have raided new locations linked to the financing of his election campaign. Also on Thursday, the European Court of Human Rights rejected Călin Georgescu’s appeal challenging the annulment of the presidential election in Romania in December 2024. The decision is unanimous and final. Călin Georgescu recently announced that he will submit his candidacy for the presidential election in May with the Central Electoral Bureau on Friday.

     

    GOVERNMENT The Romanian government on Thursday passed several emergency orders, concerning, among other things, the healthcare reform and the spending of EU funds. In the field of healthcare, the government wants to improve regulations on public medical care for freelancers, on the taxation of medicines, on the organization and operation of medical offices and the granting of sick leaves. In a separate emergency order, the Romanian government earmarks the financing for certain local authorities to complete works to extend and upgrade natural gas infrastructure. Finally, the cabinet has also approved the amount of this year’s state aid for the livestock sector.

     

    MOLDOVA – The Republic of Moldova has been accepted into the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA), the decision reflecting a confirmation of significant progress in the process of accession to the European Union, the National Bank of the Republic of Moldova has announced. According to the document, SEPA membership will facilitate faster, safer and more accessible international payments in Euro for Moldovan citizens and businesses. “Today’s decision consolidates our irreversible path towards European accession”, said the Governor of the National Bank of the Republic of Moldova, Anca Dragu. SEPA is a European system that facilitates cross-border payments in Euro, eliminating the differences between national and international payments. It includes all European Union countries, as well as other states. (VP)

  • March 6, 2025 UPDATE 1

    March 6, 2025 UPDATE 1

    PRESIDENCY – On a visit to Brussels, Romania’s interim president Ilie Bolojan on Thursday discussed with European Commission president Ursula von der Leyen regarding Romania’s priorities in implementing the National Recovery and Resilience Plan and increasing the absorption of European funds. “We also expressed our support for the European Commission’s initiatives in the field of defense and competitiveness”, Ilie Bolojan wrote on social media. The Romanian president also met with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, and the two officials discussed opportunities to strengthen the Eastern Flank. Ilie Bolojan is attending an extraordinary European Council, where heads of state and government from the European Union are discussing support for Ukraine and the situation of European defense. Ahead of the summit, the European Commission president said that Europe is at a crossroads and stressed the importance of Europe defending itself through a massive increase in defense spending but also by helping Ukraine achieve a lasting and fair peace. Ursula von der Leyen proposed a European armament plan, with defense investments of up to €800 billion. In turn, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, assured European leaders that the European Parliament can move quickly and effectively to respond to present-day unprecedented security challenges. “Peace must guarantee freedom for Ukraine, security for Europe and deterrence for those who think they can take it by force”, president Metsola added. Present in Brussels, Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelenskyy thanked the EU for its strong support.

     

    APPEAL – Magistrates on Thursday dismissed as unfounded the complaint filed by Călin Georgescu against the judicial control measure, in the investigation where he faces several charges. A former independent candidate in last year’s presidential elections, Călin Georgescu was last week placed under judicial control by the Prosecutor General’s Office for a period of 60 days. He is subject to a number of interdictions, including the right to leave the country without the approval of judicial authorities. At the same time, Georgescu cannot post content of a legionary, fascist, anti-Semitic, racist or xenophobic nature on social media. Georgescu is being prosecuted for committing six crimes, the most serious being that of inciting actions against the constitutional order. Investigators claim that he Georgescu had come up with a plan to destabilize the country after the Constitutional Court annulled the presidential election in December. The first round was won by Călin Georgescu. Meanwhile, prosecutors have raided new locations linked to the financing of his election campaign. Also on Thursday, the European Court of Human Rights rejected Călin Georgescu’s appeal challenging the annulment of the presidential election in Romania in December 2024. The decision is unanimous and final. Călin Georgescu recently announced that he will submit his candidacy for the presidential election in May with the Central Electoral Bureau on Friday.

     

    GOVERNMENT – The Romanian Government on Thursday passed several emergency orders, concerning, among other things, the healthcare reform and the spending of EU funds. In the field of healthcare, the government wants to improve regulations on public medical care for freelancers, on the taxation of medicines, on the organization and operation of medical offices and the granting of sick leaves. In a separate emergency order, the Romanian government earmarks the financing for certain local authorities to complete works to extend and upgrade natural gas infrastructure. Finally, the cabinet has also approved the amount of this year’s state aid for the livestock sector. (VP)

  • Romania and NATO’s Eastern Flank

    Romania and NATO’s Eastern Flank

    Romania’s interim president, Ilie Bolojan, spoke by phone with NATO Secretary General, Mark Rutte, on Monday, when he said that the North Atlantic Alliance remains the main guarantor of Romania’s security. Article 5, which provides that an armed attack against one of the allies is considered an attack against all the members, is the one, which most effectively discourages threats and attacks against NATO members, president Bolojan explained.

    The leader in Bucharest also insisted over the importance of the transatlantic relation and the US presence in Europe, which are crucial in his opinion for the security of the continent. Romania continues to contribute to the stability and security of NATO’s Eastern Flank together with its partners and is supporting the consolidation of security in the Black Sea region, Bolojan underlined.

    The president explained that Bucharest, which is presently allotting 2.5% of its GDP for defence, is ready to further increase investment in this area.

    Referring to the situation in Ukraine, President Bolojan highlighted the need for a fair and durable peace as well as the importance of carrying on support for this country. The NATO Secretary General thanked Romania for its contribution in the alliance, as well as for being a member which acts responsibly as a major factor of security and stability in the Black Sea area and the Eastern Flank. Mark Rutte said these efforts are all the more so relevant in the present security context and voiced NATO’s support for strengthening the allied presence in the region.

    NATO Secretary General reiterated the commitment of NATO and the United States to collective defence and Article 5, underlining the United States’ efforts for a durable peace in Ukraine. Mark Rutte also hailed Romania’s decision to raise its defence budget and underlined the need for other European allies to have similar approaches.

    The two leaders agreed to maintain a constant dialogue on these issues. The Romanian president and the NATO Secretary General had attended an informal meeting on European security in London on Sunday. The participants in the aforementioned meeting, hosted by British Prime Minister, Kier Starmer, pledged to carry on financial and military support for Ukraine.

    After the meeting, president Bolojan said the security guarantees to Ukraine would in fact be for the entire Eastern Flank, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea. However, the Romanian official said these guarantees cannot be assured without support from the United States. The informal meeting in London was one of coordination in the run up to the European Council proceedings on March 6 and a meeting that is to bring together, on March 7, leaders of the non-EU countries who want an approach to settling the conflict in Ukraine that might lead to the implementation of sustainable peace in the region.

    (bill)

  • March 3, 2025 UPDATE

    March 3, 2025 UPDATE

    INITIATIVE A Parliament group of the Young People’s Party (POT) has initiated the procedure of gathering signatures to suspend Ilie Bolojan from the position of the president of the Romanian Senate and implicitly from that of the country’s interim president. According to Anamaria Gavrila, leader of the aforementioned opposition party, Bolojan has seriously exceeded his authority and didn’t consult citizens over the decision to raise defence expenses. In order to start the procedure of suspending the president, the request must be signed by at least one third of the number of MPs, namely 117 senators and deputies. The move comes after POT has joined the other two opposition groups, the Alliance for the Union of Romanians and SOS Romania, which are contesting at the Constitutional Court the law under which the Romanian Army can shoot down the drones violating Romania’s airspace. The initiative is considered outrageous and dangerous by the Save Romania Union, another opposition party. Its leader, Elena Lasconi, has accused representatives of the three parties that they aren’t fighting for Romania, but against it, as they are trying to block measures aimed at protecting the people living close to Ukraine’s border and undermine Romania’s capability of responding a real threat.

     

    AID The European Union will this year allot another 60 million Euros to the Republic of Moldova so that the country may strengthen its defence capabilities, the European Council president, Antonio Costa, announced in Chisinau. According to him, within the European Peace Facility, set up for supporting the defence capabilities of various countries, the Republic of Moldova is the second beneficiary, with 137 million Euros allotted so far. The head of the European Council visited Chisinau on Monday, three years since the Republic of Moldova submitted its request for joining the European Union. Romania’s interim President, Ilie Bolojan, also went to Chisinau over the weekend and gave assurances that Bucharest would call for more financial support, expertise and projects at EU level. Furthermore, Bolojan said, the Romanian government would continue to cap prices for a good part of the electricity the Republic of Moldova is buying from Romania.

     

    UKRAINE Romania’s interim president Ilie Bolojan says the security guarantees Europe is to offer Ukraine will in fact benefit the entire eastern flank, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea, and that they cannot be ensured without the support of the United States. He said on Sunday at the end of an informal summit hosted in London that the meeting was aimed at achieving coordination in the run-up to the European Council on 6th March and a meeting the next day with leaders of non-EU countries wishing to look for a solution to the war in Ukraine that will ensure lasting peace. According to the Romanian head of state, the leaders gathered in London agreed to maintain financial and military support for Ukraine.

     

    CUTS The Romanian government this week plans to issue a decision to cut the number of under-secretaries, government sources have said. The ruling coalition, made up of the Social Democratic Party, the National Liberal Party and the Democratic Union of Ethnic Hungarians in Romania, have held talks on this subject and the cabinet led by the Social Democrat Marcel Ciolacu is to adopt a regulation providing for a maximum number of 54 under-secretaries. The same sources said that ministries that now have 6 or 7 posts of under-secretaries will remain with 4 at the most, and each will be validated by the coalition. Also, under-secretaries who are part of management boards of state companies will have to choose between the two positions. The latter is a request from the European Commission, which said that management boards of state companies should include professionals, not politicians. Also this week, prime minister Ciolacu will hold talks with his ministers on the fulfilment of the milestones laid down in the National Recovery and Resilience Plan. The absorption of European funds is a particularly challenging aspect, and the prime minister wants to stay abreast with the stages of ongoing projects.

    (bill)

  • European support for Ukraine

    European support for Ukraine

    The brutal failure of American-Ukrainian talks on Friday in Washington leaves little room for illusions about the United States assuming a major role in the Ukrainian peace process. Those who must now assume such a role are Europeans themselves. Europe is going through a unique moment for its security, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on Sunday in London, hosting an informal summit attended by about fifteen allies of Ukraine, in the presence of president Volodymyr Zelenskyy. EU leaders pledged to do more for Europe’s security and arm themselves, but they also insisted on the need to maintain strong support from the United States. The meeting highlighted the difference in approach between US president Donald Trump, who wants a quick peace agreement between Russia and Ukraine, and European leaders, who seem willing to continue military support for Kyiv until it achieves a peace it deems convenient, AFP notes.

     

    Europe, Starmer argues, must do the heavy lifting, but to defend peace on our continent and to succeed, this effort must be strongly supported by the United States. Several European countries will increase their defense spending, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte said. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, in turn argued that the EU must urgently rearm and prepare for the worst. The Commission president announced that she would present a comprehensive plan for EU rearmament at the extraordinary European summit on March 6, a plan that will also address the need for EU countries to obtain fiscal leeway to increase military spending. Summit participants discussed the need for comprehensive security guarantees for Ukraine in the future. Such guarantees, von der Leyen argues, must range from economic survival to military resilience.

     

    Shortly before the London summit, the British Prime Minister announced that he was working with French President Emmanuel Macron on a plan to end the fighting in Ukraine, a plan that would then be presented to the United States. The plan also involves a coalition of volunteers from European countries to provide Ukraine with security guarantees in the event of a peace agreement with Russia, but also benefit from US support. The interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, also attended the London summit. The Romanian official confirmed that participants decided to maintain financial and military support for Kyiv until a ceasefire is agreed. European states must take on a greater burden for peace in Europe, and this implies increasing defense budgets. EU leaders agreed that security guarantees to Ukraine cannot be ensured without support from the US, president Bolojan further said. These security guarantees are not only for Ukraine, but are practically for the entire eastern flank, from the Baltic to the Black Sea, the Romanian official pointed out. (VP)

  • Romania’s interim president about the Ukraine summit in London

    Romania’s interim president about the Ukraine summit in London

    The interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, says the security guarantees to be granted to Ukraine will practically be for “the entire Eastern Flank, from the Baltic Sea to the Black Sea”. He said on Sunday, fresh from the leaders’ informal summit in London, that the summit was a coordination meeting ahead of the European Council on March 6 and of a meeting due on March 7, with leaders of non- EU countries who want a solution to the war in Ukraine to bring a lasting peace.

    The leaders agreed that the security guarantees to be granted to Ukraine cannot be provided without US support. To this end, in continuation of the transatlantic partnership, the leaders will work on a joint plan, so that security guarantees be ensured both with a larger involvement by the European countries and also based on the US’ support, Bolojan told the media.

    According to the interim president of Romania, the leaders agreed in London to maintain financial and military support for Ukraine. They also agreed to prepare the European countries to “assume a greater burden for peace in Europe”. To this end, they will consider increasing defense budgets in the near future, Bolojan said.

    He added that in order to have a truce and reach a ceasefire as soon as possible, a resumption of dialogue between Ukraine and the US is needed. The leaders attending the summit agreed to hold consultations, in the next stage, and to make decisions by the end of next week, the interim president added.

  • March 1, 2025 UPDATE 3

    March 1, 2025 UPDATE 3

    ROMANIA – MOLDOVA RELATIONS – Romania is Moldova’s most important partner, on which it has relied in any circumstances, Maia Sandu said upon meeting her Romanian counterpart, Ilie Bolojan, in Chișinău. „These are difficult times, which is why Romania’s support is all the more important. Beyond joint projects, we are tied by a common vision for the future, our will to live in peace, freedom and democracy”, Maia Sandu pointed out. In turn, interim president Ilie Bolojan said he wants to consolidate the bilateral relations, and that he visited Chișinău for consutlations with Maia Sandu in a very difficult context. “I assure you Romania stands with you. We will support you, in our dialogue with European partners, and will step up support at all levels, in terms of finance, expertise and projects. Russia’s war against Ukraine continues to generate challenges for the Republic of Moldova. The Republic of Moldova does not stand alone. Romania and numerous other external partners fully support Moldova’s objective to consolidate its resilience and security”, Ilie Bolojan said. The Romanian president on Monday is expected to join countless other European leaders who will attend a security summit in London focusing on Ukraine, called by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

     

    PROTEST – A few hundred thousand people protested on Saturday in Victory Square in central Bucharest in a rally organized by the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR). Its leader, George Simion, said the protest was directed against the Romanian government and the Constitutional Court’s ruling that annulled the second round of last year’s presidential election. Participants were seen waving national flags and banners in support of the independent candidate, Călin Georgescu. Georgescu himself attended the protest, accusing the authorities of trying to block his candidacy in the May presidential election.

     

    DRONE – Fragments of a Russian drone discovered with explosives onboard in the area near the Giurgiulesti border checkpoint on Romania’s eastern border with the Republic of Moldova, were detonated in a controlled explosion. A team of specialists from the Ministry of National Defense, the Romanian Intelligence Service and the Ministry of Interior were on site and eliminated the threat. Fragments of drones used by Russian forces in attacks against civilian and military infrastructure in Ukraine are frequently discovered on Romanian territory, which has led to countless protests from the Romanian Foreign Ministry against Moscow. This week, the Romanian Senate adopted a law that allows the Army to shoot down drones that illegally enter the country’s airspace.

     

    WHITE HOUSE MEETING – International leaders, including Romania’s interim president, Ilie Bolojan, have reacted to the falling-out between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump, most of them appealing to calm and maintaining support for Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told Volodymyr Zelensky to be strong and courageous because he is not alone, Reuters reports. Messages of encouragement for Ukraine also came from Poland, Norway, Canada, Czechia, Spain, the Netherlands, Latvia, Lithuania and the United Kingdom. In turn, French president Emmanuel Macron recalled that Russia is the aggressor in the current conflict, and the Ukrainian people are the victim, fighting for both their independence and the security of Europe. A similar message was conveyed by the president of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu. Italy’s Prime Minister, Georgia Meloni, said that in such moments unity is needed and called for the organization of a US – EU summit. Following talks between Zelenskyy and Trump at the Oval Office, the interim president of Romania posted a message on X, arguing that “the security of Ukraine is crucial for the security of Europe” and that “we must stand united to fight for our values, freedom and peace”. The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, during which vice-president J.D. Vance also intervened, took place at the Oval Office of the White House and ended with a dispute. Volodymyr Zelensky explained that, starting 2014, when Russia first attacked Ukraine, until the full-scale invasion of 2022, there were numerous attempts to regulate the conflict and ceasefires, but Russia violated its commitments every time. Therefore, Zelenskyy asked president Donald Trump not to accept compromises from Vladimir Putin. The two American leaders responded harshly, accusing Volodymyr Zelenskyy of not being grateful and not thanking the United States for the support received and of risking to start World War III. As a result of growing tension, the agreement on the joint exploitation of Ukrainian rare earths, requested by president Donald Trump as compensation for the support provided so far by the United States, was not signed, and the joint press conference of the two leaders was canceled.

     

    MĂRȚIȘOR – Romanians on March 1 celebrate the coming of spring, popularly known as Mărțișor. This popular celebrate was first documented in the early 20th century in Romania, Bulgaria, Albania and elsewhere in the Balkans. In Romania, Mărțișor was associated with protection against disease and misfortune. A silver coin was usually tied with a red-and-white piece of string to children’s hands, to ward off disease. 12 days later, the coin is tied to a branch so the tree can bloom, or it is tied to cattle’s horns, to prevent disease. Picked up by urban culture, Mărțișor became a very fashionable holiday. People buy silver or gold trinkets to give to their loved ones. Mărțișor was added to the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage list in 2017 following a joint application from Romania, Moldova, Bulgaria and North Macedonia. (VP)

  • March 1, 2025 UPDATE 2

    March 1, 2025 UPDATE 2

    ROMANIA – MOLDOVA RELATIONS – Romania is Moldova’s most important partner, on which it has relied in any circumstances, Maia Sandu said upon meeting her Romanian counterpart, Ilie Bolojan, in Chișinău. „These are difficult times, which is why Romania’s support is all the more important. Beyond joint projects, we are tied by a common vision for the future, our will to live in peace, freedom and democracy”, Maia Sandu pointed out. In turn, interim president Ilie Bolojan said he wants to consolidate the bilateral relations, and that he visited Chișinău for consutlations with Maia Sandu in a very difficult context. “I assure you Romania stands with you. We will support you, in our dialogue with European partners, and will step up support at all levels, in terms of finance, expertise and projects. Russia’s war against Ukraine continues to generate challenges for the Republic of Moldova. The Republic of Moldova does not stand alone. Romania and numerous other external partners fully support Moldova’s objective to consolidate its resilience and security”, Ilie Bolojan said. The Romanian president on Monday is expected to join countless other European leaders who will attend a security summit in London focusing on Ukraine, called by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

     

    PROTEST – A few hundred thousand people are protesting in Victory Square in central Bucharest in a rally organized by the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR). Its leader, George Simion, says the protest is directed against the Romanian government and the Constitutional Court’s ruling that annulled the second round of last year’s presidential election. Participants were seen waving national flags and banners in support of the independent candidate, Călin Georgescu.

     

    DRONE – Fragments of a Russian drone discovered with explosives onboard in the area near the Giurgiulesti border checkpoint on Romania’s eastern border with the Republic of Moldova, were detonated in a controlled manner. A team of specialists from the Ministry of National Defense, the Romanian Intelligence Service and the Ministry of Interior were on site and eliminated the threat. Fragments of drones used by Russian forces in attacks against civilian and military infrastructure in Ukraine are frequently discovered on Romanian territory, which has led to countless protests from the Romanian Foreign Ministry against Moscow. This week, the Romanian Senate adopted a law that allows the Army to shoot down drones that illegally enter the country’s airspace.

  • March 1, 2025 UPDATE 1

    March 1, 2025 UPDATE 1

    ROMANIA – MOLDOVA RELATIONS – Romania is Moldova’s most important partner, on which it has relied in any circumstances, Maia Sandu said upon meeting her Romanian counterpart, Ilie Bolojan, in Chișinău. „These are difficult times, which is why Romania’s support is all the more important. Beyond joint projects, we are tied by a common vision for the future, our will to live in peace, freedom and democracy”, Maia Sandu pointed out. In turn, interim president Ilie Bolojan said he wants to consolidate the bilateral relations, and that he visited Chișinău for consutlations with Maia Sandu in a very difficult context. “I assure you Romania stands with you. We will support you, in our dialogue with European partners, and will step up support at all levels, in terms of finance, expertise and projects. Russia’s war against Ukraine continues to generate challenges for the Republic of Moldova. The Republic of Moldova does not stand alone. Romania and numerous other external partners fully support Moldova’s objective to consolidate its resilience and security”, Ilie Bolojan said. The Romanian president on Monday is expected to join countless other European leaders who will attend a security summit in London focusing on Ukraine, called by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.

     

    PROTEST – A few hundred thousand people are protesting in Victory Square in central Bucharest in a rally organized by the Alliance for the Unity of Romanians (AUR). Its leader, George Simion, says the protest is directed against the Romanian government and the Constitutional Court’s ruling that annulled the second round of last year’s presidential election. Participants were seen waving national flags and banners in support of the independent candidate, Călin Georgescu.

  • March 1, 2025

    March 1, 2025

    ROMANIA – MOLDOVA RELATIONS – Romania’s interim president, Ilie Bolojan, on Saturday morning was received by his Moldovan counterpart, Maia Sandu, as part of an official visit to Chișinău. Ilie Bolojan also met with Moldovan Parliament Speaker Igor Grosu and Prime Minister Dorin Recean, and brought a floral tribute to the Stephen the Great monument in the Moldovan capital. The Romanian head of state traveled to Moldova to further consolidate the Romanian-Moldovan partnership and express Romania’s willingness to continue support and cooperation with its neighbor. On February 12, shortly after being sworn in as interim president, Ilie Bolojan phoned the Moldovan president, discussing ways to continue close cooperation and bilateral relations.

     

    WHITE HOUSE MEETING – International leaders, including Romania’s interim president, Ilie Bolojan, have reacted to the falling-out between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump, most of them appealing to calm and maintaining support for Ukraine. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen told Volodymyr Zelensky to be strong and courageous because he is not alone, Reuters reports. Messages of encouragement for Ukraine also came from Poland, Norway, Canada, Czechia, Spain, the Netherlands, Latvia, Lithuania and the United Kingdom. In turn, French president Emmanuel Macron recalled that Russia is the aggressor in the current conflict, and the Ukrainian people are the victim, fighting for both their independence and the security of Europe. A similar message was conveyed by the president of the Republic of Moldova, Maia Sandu. Italy’s Prime Minister, Georgia Meloni, said that in such moments unity is needed and called for the organization of a US – EU summit. Following talks between Zelenskyy and Trump at the Oval Office, the interim president of Romania posted a message on X, arguing that “the security of Ukraine is crucial for the security of Europe” and that “we must stand united to fight for our values, freedom and peace”. The meeting between Trump and Zelenskyy, during which vice-president J.D. Vance also intervened, took place at the Oval Office of the White House and ended with a dispute. Volodymyr Zelensky explained that, starting 2014, when Russia first attacked Ukraine, until the full-scale invasion of 2022, there were numerous attempts to regulate the conflict and ceasefires, but Russia violated its commitments every time. Therefore, Zelenskyy asked president Donald Trump not to accept compromises from Vladimir Putin. The two American leaders responded harshly, accusing Volodymyr Zelenskyy of not being grateful and not thanking the United States for the support received and of risking to start World War III. As a result of growing tension, the agreement on the joint exploitation of Ukrainian rare earths, requested by president Donald Trump as compensation for the support provided so far by the United States, was not signed, and the joint press conference of the two leaders was canceled.

     

    ARREST – Mercenary Horaţiu Potra, his son and his brother were added to an international wanted list by the Romanian Police, after the Supreme Court decided to have them arrested. At the same time, 16 other defendants have already been placed under pre-trial arrest, and two individuals were put on house arrest. All suspects are accused of actions against the constitutional order. Additionally, Horaţiu Potra is accused of violating the weapons and ammunition regime and the explosives regime. According to some sources, the three fugitives are currently in Dubai. Prosecutors claim Horaţiu Potra and his group of mercenaries sought to infiltrate the protests organized immediately after the annulment of last year’s presidential election in Romania, in order to create chaos. The action plan was allegedly devised by former independent candidate Călin Georgescu and his associates in a secret meeting shortly after decision of the Constitutional Court. As for Călin Georgescu, he was placed under pre-trial arrest for 60 days on Wednesday. He is being investigated for several crimes, including incitement to actions against the constitutional order.

     

    MĂRȚIȘOR – Romanians on March 1 celebrate the coming of spring, popularly known as Mărțișor. This popular celebrate was first documented in the early 20th century in Romania, Bulgaria, Albania and elsewhere in the Balkans. In Romania, Mărțișor was associated with protection against disease and misfortune. A silver coin was usually tied with a red-and-white piece of string to children’s hands, to ward off disease. 12 days later, the coin is tied to a branch so the tree can bloom, or it is tied to cattle’s horns, to prevent disease. Picked up by urban culture, Mărțișor became a very fashionable holiday. People buy silver or gold trinkets to give to their loved ones. Mărțișor was added to the UNESCO Intangible World Heritage list in 2017 following a joint application from Romania, Moldova, Bulgaria and North Macedonia. (VP)

  • February 25, 2025 UPDATE

    February 25, 2025 UPDATE

    WB Representatives of Romania’s Environment Ministry on Tuesday met World Bank officials for talks that focused on increasing the capability of creating and improving the programmes aimed at monitoring the quality of air at national level, ways of preventing wildfires and solutions regarding Romania’s vulnerability to drought and flooding. “Romania is on an ambitious course of sustainability and environmental reforms need solid investment and strong partnerships”, Environment Minister Mircea Fechet says, according to a communiqué released by the institution. Talks also focused on finding the most effective mechanisms of funding and implementing green projects be they about curbing CO2 emissions, waste management, reforestation, the protection of biodiversity or the transition towards circular economy. “We need innovative and sustainable solutions and the WB expertise provides valuable support in this sense” – the minister went on to say.

     

    TALKS Romania’s interim President, Ilie Bolojan, will be holding talks with all parliamentary parties on Wednesday to prepare Romania’s position at the special European Council meeting on March 6. The main topics of discussion are related to support for Ukraine and the preparation of the European Union’s common defense strategy, after the American administration announced that it wants to reduce its military presence in Europe. Each of the seven parties represented in Parliament and the parliamentary group of national minorities has been allocated an hour for discussions. In a message conveyed on Tuesday, Ilie Bolojan says that a series of decisions will be made at the upcoming summit, which is going to have a direct effect on Romania. “Against this complicated and dynamic background, when we are witnessing a series of changes at international level, it would be necessary for us to adjust our foreign policy to be able to handle these challenges. However there are things that aren’t going to change, namely Romania’s national interests, a safe and prosperous country, a trustworthy country at peace with its neighbours. We are a safe country because we are benefitting from solid defence guarantees” Ilie Bolojan said.

     

    MOTION A censure motion against the PSD-PNL-UDMR coalition government in Bucharest was submitted to Parliament on Tuesday. The document was signed by 154 parliamentarians from what is known as ‘the sovereignist bloc’ made up of SOS Romania, AUR and POT. However USR, also in opposition, has announced that it does not back the motion, as there are not enough votes to endorse it and that the process should have been initiated after the presidential elections in May. The signatories are accusing the Executive of illegitimacy, corruption and incompetence in managing the economy and European funds. PSD, PNL and UDMR believe the initiative will not be successful. The motion will be debated and voted upon on Friday.

     

    SALES The Romanian carmaker Dacia’s sales in Europe registered an annual decline of 5.2% in January, and the car manufacturer’s market share fell to 4.9% from 5.1%, data released on Tuesday by the Association of European Automobile Manufacturers say. The statistical data is valid for the European Union, the United Kingdom and the countries of the European Free Trade Association, namely Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. Large car manufacturers reported mixed sale developments in January: increases of 5.4% at Renault and 16.6% at Volkswagen, but a decrease of 12.2% at Ford. The European Commission is hosting talks between car manufacturers, suppliers and unions in the field, with a view to implementing plans at EU level to protect the automotive sector, vital for the prosperity of the community bloc. In recent weeks, European carmakers have announced plant closures and layoffs, amid competition from rivals in China and the prospect of additional tariffs from the US. The European car sector employs 13.2 million people and accounts for 10.3% of all jobs in the EU industry.

     

    RATE After ten months in which Romania had the highest average annual inflation in the EU, in January 2025 Hungary climbed to first position, with 5.7%, followed by Romania, with 5.3%, and Croatia, with 5 percent, according to data published by the European Statistical Office. At the opposite end, last month, the lowest average annual inflation rates in the EU were recorded in Denmark (1.4%), Ireland, Italy and Finland (1.7%). Compared to December 2024, Eurostat shows that the average annual inflation rate decreased in eight EU member states, including Romania, from 5.5% to 5.3%, remained stable in four and increased in 15 countries. The National Bank has revised upwards the inflation forecast in Romania for the end of 2025, from 3.5% to 3.8%. The Governor of the National Bank of Romania, Mugur Isărescu, anticipates that this indicator will reach 3.1% at the end of 2026.

    (bill)

  • Talks on Ukraine

    Talks on Ukraine

    From the perspective of the interim president of Romania, Ilie Bolojan, the security of neighboring Ukraine, invaded by Russian troops, is essential both for Romania and for the entire European continent. In a video-link intervention at the summit hosted by Kyiv, Bolojan said that support for Ukraine must continue in the following stages, in the peace process and in the reconstruction process. Romania is ready to coordinate with all European, American and allied partners to contribute to finding the path to a fair and lasting peace as quickly as possible, interim president Bolojan further noted. Any discussion about ending the war in Ukraine cannot take place without Ukraine, the Foreign Ministry in Bucharest also reported on Monday, marking three years since the invasion began. Moreover, the MFA adds, there can be no just and lasting peace without holding accountable all those guilty of the crimes committed against Ukraine. The Ministry emphasizes that, for Romania, a secure, resilient, stable, democratic and prosperous Ukrainian state remains a fundamental foreign policy objective. Furthermore, no discussion about security in Europe can take place without the direct involvement of European states, the Ministry also notes.

     

    This view seems to be widely shared right now. The participation of Europeans in peace talks with Ukraine will be necessary in the end, Russian president Vladimir Putin said himself, suggesting however, that the war will last. The new White House leader, Donald Trump, in turn agreed that Europeans should play a role in the Ukraine peace process, by guaranteeing its security. Trump also stated that Putin would agree to a European peacekeeping force in Ukraine, a solution that Moscow had previously rejected. In Washington, the American president met his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, who said that a ceasefire might be reached in a few weeks.

     

    In the meantime, the European Council President, António Costa, and the President of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, traveled to Kyiv to reiterate their support for Ukraine. The EU will continue its support, also by stepping up pressure with new sanctions against the Russian aggressor, EU officials said. Although not agreed by all EU member states, a new €20-billion military aid package is also on Brussels’ agenda, which the EU claims will strengthen Kyiv’s position in negotiations, rather than contribute to achieving peace. (VP)

  • February 9-13

    February 9-13

    100 days with Ilie Bolojan, after 10 years with Klaus Iohannis

    This Wednesday, Klaus Iohannis ended his second and last term as President of Romania. Ilie Bolojan, who stepped down as Senate Speaker and president of PNL took over the position of interim head of state. The Constitutional Court took note the presidency was vacated after Klaus Iohannis announced his resignation on Monday and established that the head of the Senate should step in as interim president. Ilie Gavrilă Bolojan was born 1969, in Bihor County (west). He studied mechanics and mathematics. He joined PNL in 1993. He is considered one of the best local specialists in local public administration. Over 2008-2020, he was mayor of Oradea, holding three mandates. Since 2020, he has been president of the Bihor County Council, a position he held until last year, when he became a senator. As interim president, an office he will hold for about a hundred days, Bolojan will have limited powers: he cannot address Parliament on key political issues, he cannot dissolve Parliament and he cannot call a national referendum. On December 21, 2024, Klaus Iohannis was supposed to end his term in office, but his stay at the Presidency was extended after the Constitutional Court annulled the entire process for the election of a new president. A new presidential election is slated for May, with the first round on the 4th and the second round on the 18th.

     

    The state budget for 2025, ratified on the last day of Iohannis’ term in office

    A few hours before announcing his resignation, President Iohannis signed the decrees for ratifying the State Budget Law for 2025 and the State Social Security Budget Law. The two bills were voted last week in a joint Parliament sitting. The budget is based on an economic growth rate of 2.5% and a budget deficit target of 7% of GDP. Finance Minister Tanczos Barna stated, before the plenary sitting, that the state budget is “moderate” and based on a prudent increase in revenues, “without exaggerations”. The Romanian official pointed out that the State Social Security Budget Law focuses “primarily on the payment of pensions”.

     

    A no-confidence vote is in the making

    The three parties in the self-proclaimed sovereignist opposition, AUR, SOS Romania and POT, have announced their intention to call for a vote of no-confidence against the PSD-PNL-UDMR ruling coalition. The motion could also be voted by MPs from the pro-European opposition party USR. Social-Democrat Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu claims he has no reasons to be afraid and that he is “confident” that “the government will not fall”. Political pundits do not rule out, however, possible defections within the majority and are skeptical about the chances of Ciolacu’s Cabinet staying in power.

     

    A new Russian attack

    The Romanian Foreign Ministry firmly condemns the irresponsible attack by Russian forces on February 13, when two drones carrying explosives violated the airspace and fell on Romanian territory, near the border with Ukraine. By order of the Minister of Foreign Affairs Emil Hurezeanu, the ad interim charge d’affaires of the Russian Federation in Bucharest was urgently summoned to the headquarters of the Ministry, where the Romanian side firmly condemned the repeated violations of Romania’s airspace. These illegal and irresponsible attacks must cease, while Romania has the right to take the necessary response measures, the Ministry said. Attending the 61st edition of the Munich International Security Conference, in Germany, organized over February 14-16, Minister Emil Hurezeanu calls for a just, comprehensive and sustainable peace in Ukraine The head of diplomacy from Bucharest also advocates for the continued provision of solid support for increasing the resilience of the Republic of Moldova.

     

    Bloody brawl in Urziceni

    Interior Minister, Cătălin Predoiu, states that the involvement of several state structures is needed to combat organized crime and dismantle underworld clans. According to the Romanian official, although hundreds of organized crime groups have been dismantled in recent years, they are regenerating, and solving the problem may take a long time. At the end of last week, in Urziceni (south), two people died and five were injured, following a street brawl seasoned with gunfire, involving a few dozen people. Some of the combatants were arrested and charged with aggravated murder, brawl, disturbing public order and peace, failure to comply with the weapons and munitions legislation, unauthorized use of a weapon, attempted aggravated murder. Street brawls are uncommon in Romania, generally considered a safe country.

     

    Romania secures Rugby World Cup qualification

    Romania qualified for the 2027 World Cup in Australia after grabbing victories this month against Germany, 48-10, and Belgium, 31-14, in Rugby Europe Championship 2025. The Oaks have only missed out on the World Cup once, in 2019, when they were disqualified for fielding a naturalized but ineligible Tongan player. In football, Romanian champions FCSB from Bucharest defeated Greek side PAOK Thessaloniki 2-1 on Thursday night in the first leg of their Europa League round-of-16 play-offs. The return leg against the Greeks, coached by Romanian Răzvan Lucescu, is scheduled for next week in Bucharest. Also on Thursday, in handball, the defending champions Dinamo Bucharest lost 26-33 the home match against the Hungarian side One Veszprem HC, in Champions League Group A. (VP)