• Nicusor Dan won Romania's presidential election with 54% of the vote.
• His rival, nationalist George Simion, secured approximately 46%.
• The election was marked by high voter turnout and allegations of Russian interference.
• Dan promised to steer Romania on a pro-European path, emphasizing anti-corruption.
• This election followed the annulment of a previous vote due to election fraud claims.

Centrist and pro-European candidate Nicusor Dan has emerged victorious in Romania's presidential election, securing 54% of the vote against nationalist George Simion, who received about 46%. The election, marked by a significant turnout of approximately 65%, was crucial for the country's political direction amidst ongoing concerns of corruption and foreign influence. Simion had led the initial round earlier in May 4, but Dan's campaign emphasized a vision for change and rebuilding Romania, aiming to align the country closer with EU values, according to Le Monde and India Times.

During his celebration speech, Dan declared the election a victory for Romanians seeking profound change, stating, "In today's elections a community of Romanians who want a profound change in Romania won." He highlighted plans to tackle issues like corruption that have plagued Romania since the fall of communism in 1989. His win comes after a previous election was annulled due to allegations of Russian interference and a substantial social media campaign favoring Simion, who faced restrictions this time around. This tumultuous election context raised the stakes significantly, according to Al Jazeera and Le Monde.

The new president holds considerable sway over foreign policy, a critical area of concern given Romania's proximity to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Dan has publicly supported Ukraine and criticized Simion's "isolationist" rhetoric. Political analysts have emphasized that Dan's victory signals a shift toward a more pro-European and reformist governance, a sentiment echoed by EU leaders who congratulated him on his win, as noted by India Times.