Information
The European Union (EU) has ordered TikTok to preserve data tied to Romania’s recent elections amid concerns of Russian interference, as revealed by declassified Romanian intelligence reports. Using its Digital Services Act (DSA), the EU aims to investigate potential risks to electoral processes and civic discourse linked to TikTok. Russia has denied any involvement, but skepticism lingers, fueled by the surprising rise of pro-Russia ultranationalist Calin Georgescu, who emerged as a front-runner in Romania’s presidential race. Georgescu’s campaign relied heavily on TikTok, featuring viral videos that highlighted his appeals to tradition, faith, and strength. TikTok has denied facilitating any interference and pledged cooperation with the EU’s investigation. Romania’s public prosecutor is also probing Georgescu’s campaign finances, following intelligence claims that it cost €1 million, despite his assertion that he spent nothing.
The broader issue has drawn international attention, with the U.S. State Department expressing concern over reported Russian cyber activities aimed at undermining Romania’s election integrity. In the December 1 election’s second round, far-right parties gained traction, though the center-left Social Democrats maintained their status as the dominant party and are working toward forming a pro-EU coalition. The final presidential vote, set for December 8, pits Georgescu against Elena Lasconi of the pro-reform Save Romania Union (USR) party.
Source: AFP, Reuters, AP
So what
Russia likely played a role in this election, both directly and indirectly, as part of a broader grey zone operation targeting Europe. Election interference serves two purposes: installing leaders favourable to Russia and undermining trust in the democratic process. A similar strategy was evident during the Trump-Clinton election, where Russian bots pushed narratives of election fraud regardless of the outcome.
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