Romanian Far-Right Leader Positions Himself as Europe’s Next Meloni

Romanian politician George Simion, leader of the AUR party, has emphasized his commitment to a “strong, united Europe” despite his conservative stance and values that often align with those of former U.S. President Donald Trump—positions that put him at odds with the Brussels establishment.

Simion vowed to collaborate with mainstream EU parties if elected, prioritizing Romania’s full integration into the Schengen visa-free zone, advocating for a directly elected EU executive, and promoting industrial growth across the bloc. However, he diverges sharply from Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, openly stating his readiness to challenge EU rules if they conflict with Romania’s interests, drawing comparisons to populist leaders like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and Slovakia’s Robert Fico.

“I would be a liar to say we would respect EU law,” Simion said, highlighting his intent to oppose regulations that he believes harm Romanian interests. “If tomorrow there is a new law we didn’t vote for … or laws that are not good for Romania, I will try to use all my powers to stop what harms my people,” he insisted.

Simion has also pledged to suspend Romania’s military aid to Ukraine, whose government has banned him from entering the country due to his promotion of “unionist ideology” involving neighboring Moldova. Additionally, he has faced allegations of ties to Russian intelligence—a claim he has consistently denied. Speaking to international reporters, Simion condemned Russian President Vladimir Putin as a “war criminal.”

Despite his harsh rhetoric, Simion has called for a ceasefire in Ukraine “as soon as possible” and supports a peace deal mediated by Donald Trump, even if it results in Ukraine ceding territory currently under Russian control. “I cannot say to Ukrainians, ‘Give up your national territory,’” he said, acknowledging the difficulty of the situation. “But it’s hard to believe that they won’t be obliged to [do so].”