Romania’s far-right presidential frontrunner George Simion said the country should be compensated for aiding Ukraine, as he clashed with centrist rival Nicusor Dan in a televised debate ahead of the decisive run-off vote.
Romanian presidential candidate George Simion, who leads the hard-right Alliance for the Union of Romanians (AUR), has called for Romania to be compensated for its support to Ukraine during its ongoing conflict with Russia. In a televised debate, Simion said that Romania’s contributions—including military donations and grain export facilitation—should be reciprocated in the future, whether through reconstruction contracts or other benefits such as grain shipments.
Simion, 38, who opposes military aid to Kyiv and has aligned himself with former U.S. President Donald Trump’s "Make America Great Again" movement, is leading in polls ahead of the May 18 run-off vote against centrist Bucharest Mayor Nicusor Dan. Simion has also expressed strong criticism of the EU’s defence policies and said he would block EU military support for Ukraine if elected.
Mayor Dan, 55, countered during the debate that Romania’s continued support for Ukraine is vital for national security and aligns with EU interests. He endorsed EU plans to increase defence capacity and reduce reliance on the United States, arguing that military preparedness serves as a deterrent rather than provocation.
Dan warned that Romania should not jeopardise its relations with Western partners, especially as it plays a key role in NATO’s eastern flank logistics. He said that supporting Ukraine's resistance was integral to ensuring peace and stability in the region.
Simion’s stance has raised concerns among analysts, who warn that his presidency could strain Romania’s foreign relations, diminish investor confidence, and undermine NATO cohesion.
Romania’s presidency holds significant influence, including command of the military and participation in EU and NATO decisions requiring unanimous agreement.
Luxembourg announced an additional €21 million in support for Ukraine, comprising €10 million for the energy sector, €10 million in military assistance, and €1 million for the Olena Zelenska Foundation.
The Norwegian Government has decided to provide a total of NOK 3 billion in humanitarian support to Ukraine and to the refugee response in Ukraine’s neighbouring countries in 2025.
The tripling of Norway’s defense support approved by the parliament will be immediately transformed into artillery, ammunition, drones, and investments in Ukraine’s domestic production base, the Norwegian Prime Minister stated following to the meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Ten blasts were reported near Srinagar International Airport in India-administered Kashmir as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, prompting global concern over a potential wider conflict.
Ukraine and Hungary announced on Friday the mutual expulsion of two diplomats each, following accusations from both sides of espionage activities.
Pope Leo XIV marked his first full day as head of the Roman Catholic Church with a solemn Mass in the Sistine Chapel on Friday, just one day after his historic election as the first American pope.
The swift election of Pope Leo XIV reflects a clear consensus among cardinals for continuity, unity, and a leader capable of bridging divides both within the Church and across the globe.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said “you cannot spy against an ally” following reports that the U.S. has increased intelligence efforts in Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.
India has fired a series of missiles into Pakistani-controlled territory, in what it has described as “Operation Sindoor”
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Chinese e-commerce platform Temu has announced it will no longer sell goods directly from China to U.S. customers, shifting instead to U.S.-based sellers amid the closure of a long-criticized customs loophole.
Cardinals from 70 nations have gathered in Vatican City to begin the historic conclave to elect the next pope, following the death of Pope Francis 17 days ago. This conclave is the most geographically diverse in Church history, showcasing Francis’ legacy of inclusivity.
The United States, along with its European allies, is finalizing a proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, with a strong warning that new sanctions will be imposed on Russia if the truce is not honored, according to a French diplomatic source on Friday.
Ten blasts were reported near Srinagar International Airport in India-administered Kashmir as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, prompting global concern over a potential wider conflict.
Ukraine and Hungary announced on Friday the mutual expulsion of two diplomats each, following accusations from both sides of espionage activities.
Pope Leo XIV marked his first full day as head of the Roman Catholic Church with a solemn Mass in the Sistine Chapel on Friday, just one day after his historic election as the first American pope.
The swift election of Pope Leo XIV reflects a clear consensus among cardinals for continuity, unity, and a leader capable of bridging divides both within the Church and across the globe.
Ten blasts were reported near Srinagar International Airport in India-administered Kashmir as tensions between India and Pakistan continue to escalate, prompting global concern over a potential wider conflict.
Ukraine and Hungary announced on Friday the mutual expulsion of two diplomats each, following accusations from both sides of espionage activities.
Pope Leo XIV marked his first full day as head of the Roman Catholic Church with a solemn Mass in the Sistine Chapel on Friday, just one day after his historic election as the first American pope.
The swift election of Pope Leo XIV reflects a clear consensus among cardinals for continuity, unity, and a leader capable of bridging divides both within the Church and across the globe.
Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen said “you cannot spy against an ally” following reports that the U.S. has increased intelligence efforts in Greenland, a semi-autonomous Danish territory.
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