Romanian Prosecutors Charge Ex-Presidential Candidate in Alleged Coup Plot

Romanian prosecutors have charged far-right ex-presidential candidate Calin Georgescu and 20 others with plotting a coup following his annulled 2024 election, citing weapons stockpiling, foreign-backed cyberattacks, and Russian interference.

Romanian prosecutors have formally charged far-right former presidential candidate Calin Georgescu, along with 20 accomplices, over an alleged attempt to stage a coup following the annulment of Georgescu’s 2024 election victory, which authorities say was influenced by Russian interference.

According to prosecutors, the group planned to launch a raid on Bucharest, with evidence indicating they had stockpiled weapons, gold, and cash in preparation for a violent takeover. Investigators also cited a sophisticated campaign of foreign-backed disinformation and cyberattacks, which they claim sought to manipulate public opinion and destabilise the nation.

“The case highlights the alarming reach of Russia’s shadow campaigns, demonstrating how external influence can turn electoral uncertainty into an existential threat,” a statement from the prosecutor’s office read. “When ballots are manipulated or undermined, democracy itself becomes a hostage.”

Georgescu, 63, who had initially topped the first round of Romania’s presidential election in November 2024, saw his victory annulled by the Constitutional Court days before the scheduled second round. Romanian intelligence services subsequently warned that his popularity, particularly on social media platforms, had been amplified through coordinated influence operations originating from abroad.

Prosecutors allege that Georgescu met with Horatiu Potra, a former French legionnaire and militia chief in the Democratic Republic of Congo, along with other members of the group, at a horse farm in early December. While Georgescu initially denied the meeting, he later acknowledged it after photographs emerged in the Romanian press, though he maintains he did not discuss plans for insurrection.

Police raids in late February recovered a significant cache of weapons, cash, and gold, which authorities believe were intended to facilitate the coup attempt. Potra is reportedly not in Romania and may seek asylum in Russia.

The alleged plot and subsequent investigation have sent shockwaves through Romanian politics, with critics warning of the broader implications of foreign interference on democratic institutions. Observers note that the case serves as a stark reminder of how modern hybrid warfare can exploit societal divisions, social media, and electoral vulnerabilities to undermine sovereignty.

No trial date has been set for Georgescu, though legal experts suggest proceedings could begin in early 2026. Meanwhile, the political fallout continues to reverberate, as Romania confronts both the domestic and international dimensions of election manipulation and the threat of violent anti-democratic schemes.