Romanian Prime Minister Ciolacu resigns after nationalist candidate win

Romanian Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu resigned after his government's candidate failed to advance to the runoff in a presidential election rerun, marking a significant setback for the pro-EU ruling coalition. Far-right nationalist George Simion won the first round with a decisive lead, while liberal Bucharest Mayor Nicușor Dan narrowly edged out the coalition's candidate for second place. Ciolacu cited the coalition's lack of credibility and legitimacy following the vote, leading both his resignation and the Social Democrat party's withdrawal from the government. The election rerun comes after the original ballot was annulled amid allegations of electoral violations and Russian interference, deepening Romania's political crisis. Simion's likely victory in the upcoming runoff has raised concerns in Brussels and Washington about potential shifts in Romania's foreign policy. An interim prime minister will be appointed by interim President Ilie Bolojan until a new government is formed.