Romanian prosecutors announced on Monday that they are probing Calin Georgescu, the pro‑Russian figure who led the cancelled 2024 presidential race, for a €1.1 million fraud scheme. The investigation follows a raid on Georgescu’s Bucharest residence and his subsequent questioning by authorities.
Background on the cancelled election
In December 2024, Romania’s election authority annulled the presidential vote after intelligence agencies warned of suspected Russian interference favoring Georgescu, a vocal critic of NATO, the European Union and Western aid to Ukraine. Moscow denied any meddling. A new election was held in May 2025, resulting in a victory for pro‑European centrist President Nicusor Dan.
Details of the fraud allegation
According to prosecutors, Georgescu and two associates convinced a businessman from Buzău County to hand over €1.1 million by promising to secure a credit line of up to €15 million from a foreign financial institution. The suspects are also accused of forming an organized‑crime group to facilitate the scheme.
Georgescu, who remains barred from running for office but retains a sizable following, declined to comment to reporters while being escorted for questioning.
Other legal challenges
Georgescu is already facing two separate cases. One concerns alleged attempts to disrupt national security after the election was cancelled, and the other involves promoting Romania’s 1930s fascist leaders, a crime under Romanian law. He has denied any wrongdoing in those matters as well.
Broader context
The investigation comes amid a series of criminal probes that Romanian officials say reveal a pattern of hybrid attacks aimed at influencing voters and weakening state institutions. Prosecutors have linked these efforts to cyber attacks, public events and online disinformation campaigns tied to pro‑Russian propaganda channels. Moscow has again denied involvement in the disinformation operations.
The cancelled 2024 ballot left the electorate deeply divided, eroding trust in state institutions and bolstering support for far‑right elements. Authorities say the current legal actions are part of a broader effort to safeguard Romania’s democratic processes and protect its citizens from foreign influence.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
