Romania's Political Showdown: Ciolacu vs. Simion

In Romania's upcoming presidential election, Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu leads the poll with 25.3%, facing opposition leader George Simion in a potential runoff. The election could influence Romania's foreign policy on Ukraine and determine the next prime minister. A parliamentary election will also occur between the two rounds.

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu and George Simion, head of a far-right opposition party, are set to clash in Romania's upcoming presidential elections, according to a new poll. Conducted by INSCOP and published on Thursday, the survey indicates that Ciolacu, a Social Democrat, leads with 25.3% of the first-round vote slated for November 24, while Simion follows at 19.1%.

The runoff election is scheduled for December 8, with a crucial parliamentary vote taking place on December 1 in between the two rounds. The elected president will influence Romania's foreign policy, particularly its stance on supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression.

While Ciolacu strongly backs Ukraine, the EU, and NATO, Simion opposes military aid to Ukraine. Other notable contenders, including Elena Lasconi of the Save Romania Union and independent candidate Mircea Geoana, follow behind with 14.3% and 13.3% respectively, as per the poll.

(With inputs from agencies.)