Russia Allegedly Interfering in Romanian Elections, Including Presidential Candidates

In a fresh warning over the integrity of Romania’s electoral process, political sources have suggested that Russia is actively attempting to influence the nation’s upcoming elections, potentially by supporting certain presidential candidates. This development, reported by Digi24, comes amid increasing concern over foreign interference in Romanian politics, with implications for both the presidential and parliamentary elections set for later this year.   Elena Crangasu, a journalist with Digi24, stated that sources within Romania suggest that Russian proxies and intermediaries are working to manipulate the election. “They are leveraging affiliated organisations and entities, some of which are reportedly financed by Russian interests,” Crangasu noted. This could include support for specific candidates, although no details about these individuals were disclosed.   The implication is that Moscow’s influence may reach beyond general interference, potentially impacting the outcome of the presidential race itself.   The Romanian Intelligence Service (SRI) is actively monitoring Russian nationals within Romania and is particularly vigilant regarding any individuals or entities challenging Romania’s alliance with the European Union and NATO. The SRI, with a dedicated unit focused on constitutional defence, is also tracking whether any organisations or actors are undermining Romania’s geopolitical position.   In addition to Russia, Romanian officials are examining possible influence from other countries, including China and North Korea. Parliament has specifically tasked SRI with investigating whether foreign states or actors could be launching cyberattacks against state institutions or spreading disinformation. The head of the parliamentary SRI committee stressed the importance of vigilance, noting that if threats are identified, the SRI is required to inform the government.   Further complicating the election landscape, Romania’s Minister of Digitalisation has raised alarms over well-organised networks of social media trolls. These groups are reportedly operating through accounts created to promote certain candidates or political agendas. The Romanian police are also involved, having launched a criminal investigation into the activities of these alleged “troll farms.”   According to government officials, some of these accounts are part of a sophisticated network aimed at influencing public opinion and shaping the election narrative. With the elections just weeks away, both state officials and intelligence agencies are stepping up their monitoring efforts. The SRI and Romanian police are particularly focused on preventing external actors from undermining the electoral process. (Source : https://eutoday.net/)