EDITOR'S CORNER: The Rise of Far-Right Politics and Kremlin's Agenda

In recent weeks, I’ve delved deeply into the political turbulence shaking Romania. From the dramatic rise of Călin Georgescu and the contentious second round of elections to the stunning decision by the Romanian Constitutional Court to annul the first round—right as diaspora voting began and just two days before the second round was set to begin—it’s been a whirlwind of events. The public outcry over this decision has been fierce, with many Romanians condemning it as a grave injustice, a constitutional breach, and even a sign of dictatorial ambitions on the part of the President.  

In this blog post, we’ll broaden our perspective to examine how similar political maneuvers have been perceived in countries like Georgia, Moldova, and other European nations. We’ll also analyze the rise of right-wing politics, dissecting how their election promises often differ from reality, and explore the growing alignment with the Kremlin—an alignment that poses significant risks to Europe’s stability.  

ERODING TRUST IN GOVERNMENT

Romania’s situation reflects a broader pattern of public disillusionment with traditional political institutions. Many Romanians feel a sense of lost sovereignty over their economy and resources, blaming external forces like the EU for undermining the country’s industrial and energy independence. Critics accuse the EU of fostering reliance on inconsistent gas supplies and neglecting Romania’s energy grid. These frustrations echo across Europe—in countries like Finland and Germany—and even fueled Brexit. This belief that nations are better off alone than tied to a "corrupt and greedy" bloc has bolstered support for anti-establishment figures like Călin Georgescu, who present themselves as champions of sovereignty.

However, this dissatisfaction has not emerged in isolation. Similar sentiments can be seen elsewhere in Europe, with issues like immigration amplifying divisions. For example, the influx of illegal asylum seekers is frequently exploited by far-right politicians and Russian propaganda. Figures such as Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni have adopted hardline stances, reflecting the growing appeal of far-right movements across the continent.

RUSSIAN PROPAGANDA 

Russia’s influence on these developments is undeniable. By exploiting economic and geopolitical grievances, the Kremlin manipulates narratives to sow discord and weaken European unity. This hybrid warfare doesn’t rely on military force but instead employs propaganda and misinformation to destabilize democracies from within. The tactics include spreading falsehoods, exaggerating fears, and perpetuating conspiracy theories.

Some notable Kremlin lies that Russia tries to spread online, is below: 

• “Ukrainian refugees are treated better than citizens. They are paid more money by the state!”: A claim pushed by Călin Georgescu during his campaign in Romania, designed to stoke resentment and division.
• “The fronts in Ukraine will be extended by the global war party. They want you to be at war!”: A baseless assertion fueling conspiracy theories. There is no such thing as a global war party, and no cabal or New World Order that want us to be in war. 
• “NATO wants a war with Russia!”: A blatant misrepresentation of NATO’s defensive posture. This is tied to the point above. Especially raised when USA gave Ukraine permission to use long range weapons in Russia. 
• “Ukraine/Finland/Romania/etc. is run by a fascist Nazi government!”: A classic propaganda line aimed at discrediting governments resisting Russian influence. An insult thrown around when Russia has nothing else better to say. 
• “Russia will use nuclear weapons if forced!”: A recurring threat meant to intimidate but unlikely given the catastrophic consequences. I'm sure that Putin knows this will be the end of Russia, if he uses nuclear weapons. 
• “Russia isn’t invading; it’s protecting Russian speakers!”: A justification for aggression that collapses under scrutiny. Many countries that have a big Russian diaspora should be aware that this tactic can be used, same like what they did in Ukraine and Georgia, when they went to war in 2008. 

These tactics, reminiscent of outdated KGB strategies, are alarmingly effective in exploiting societal divisions and discontent.

THE RISE OF FAR-RIGHT POLITICS

A troubling trend in Europe’s political landscape is the surge of far-right or strongly right-wing leaders, often aligned with Kremlin interests. This year was a great election year, with elections in at least 64 countries—representing about 49% of the world’s population. The trend we have seen in many countries is that moderate, centre left/right incumbents have been replaced by far-right wing candidates.

The problem with far-right wing politicians is that they often make exaggerated promises in the campaigns. Then, once in government, they enact the exact opposite changes. We have seen this in Finland, for example. We have the most right-wing government in our history, which has enacted sweeping changes to social welfare, immigration, labor rights, and public healthcare. Many voters, particularly working-class citizens, now feel betrayed by leaders like Riikka Purra of the Finns Party, whose pre-election promises starkly contrast with post-election policies. The result? Rising unemployment, layoffs, and bankruptcies, leaving people disillusioned and questioning their choices.

Elsewhere in Europe, Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico and Hungary’s Viktor Orbán exemplify the dangers of this shift. Their alignment with Kremlin policies raises alarms about Europe’s geopolitical stability. The risk isn’t merely domestic; these governments can undermine the EU’s collective strength and cohesion.

DEFENDING EUROPE'S VALUES 

While Europe faces significant challenges, it remains a bastion of freedom, democracy, and the rule of law. These values, however, are under threat as far-right politics gain ground, often bolstered by Russian interference. If this trend continues, the very foundations of European unity and stability could erode.

In nations like Moldova and Romania, governments are actively countering these hybrid warfare tactics, recognizing the stakes involved. Yet, in countries like Georgia, where manipulation has been more subtle, citizens are paying a steep price to defend their freedom, risking their health or lives in massive protests against pro-Kremlin policies. And, of course, in Ukraine there is a hot war going at with people risking life and limb to fight against Russian invaders. 

CONCLUSION

Europe’s imperfections are undeniable, but its strengths—freedom, democracy, and the rule of law—are worth defending. Voting for far-right candidates aligned with Russia will not solve a country’s problems; instead, it risks selling out national sovereignty to a regime that thrives on oppression and manipulation. Figures like Călin Georgescu may promise change, but their rhetoric often hides a dangerous agenda.

To counter these threats, individuals must become more discerning consumers of information. Relying on credible, fact-checked news from reputable sources is essential to resist Kremlin propaganda. By exposing and rejecting disinformation, we can protect democracy and ensure Europe remains united against authoritarianism. The fight for truth is not just a battle for Europe but a defense of the principles that underpin free societies worldwide.