Six People Detained in Romania for Alleged Plot to Overthrow Government Linked to Russia

In a significant escalation of tensions between Romania and Russia, six individuals were detained by Romanian authorities on suspicion of plotting a coup against the government. The detentions were carried out by DIICOT, Romania’s anti-organized crime agency, and were linked to a criminal group that allegedly sought to undermine the country’s sovereignty and constitutional order. According to police, the group was formed in 2023 and had ties to Russia. The suspects are accused of aiming to destabilize Romania’s defense capabilities, remove the current government, and establish a new political order with their own members in power.

Police Raids and Diplomatic Expulsions Heighten Tensions with Russia

The detentions were accompanied by a series of police raids across Romania, targeting properties in Bucharest and several counties. These raids yielded several pieces of evidence, further solidifying the case against the suspects. On the same day, Romania expelled two Russian military diplomats, citing activities that violated the Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations. The move was met with a strong response from the Russian Embassy, which condemned the expulsions as "unfounded and unfriendly" and threatened retaliatory measures. Romania’s intelligence services revealed that the group had sought support from Russian officials, including embassy staff, to further their destabilizing objectives.

Presidential Candidate Under Investigation Amid Electoral Controversy

The case has also drawn attention to a controversial figure in Romanian politics, Calin Georgescu, a far-right populist who has been accused of supporting fascist groups and attempting to undermine the constitutional order. Georgescu, who unexpectedly won the first round of the recent presidential election, has been under investigation for alleged electoral violations and ties to Russian interference. The election was annulled by the Constitutional Court, citing concerns over irregularities and foreign influence. Georgescu denies any wrongdoing, claiming the case against him is politically motivated.

The Alleged Plot to Destabilize Romania and Linked to Russia

The criminal group allegedly had a military-like structure and planned to negotiate Romania’s withdrawal from NATO, a move that would have significant geopolitical implications for the region. The group also aimed to adopt a new constitution, national symbols, and anthem, effectively reshaping Romania’s identity. Investigations revealed that the group’s members had frequent contact with Russian agents, both within Romania and in Moscow. Two suspects allegedly traveled to Moscow in January, where they reportedly met with individuals who supported their efforts to seize power.

Weapons and Cash Seized in Raids Linked to Georgescu’s Associates

In a separate but related development, Romanian authorities conducted 47 searches across five counties, uncovering a large cache of weapons, including grenade launchers and firearms, as well as millions of euros in cash. The raids targeted individuals believed to be associated with Calin Georgescu, who has been accused of supporting fascist groups and violating electoral laws. The discovery of such significant resources has raised questions about the extent of the group’s capabilities and potential foreign backing.

Romania’s Tough Stance Against Russian Influence

Romania, as a member of both NATO and the European Union, has taken a firm stance against Russian influence in its internal affairs. The expulsions of Russian diplomats and the detentions of the six suspects signal a growing assertiveness in countering perceived threats to national security. As Romania prepares for a rerun of its presidential election in May, the government is under increasing pressure to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and prevent any further foreign interference. The case has also highlighted the broader tensions between Russia and the West, with Romania emerging as a key battleground in the struggle for influence in Eastern Europe.