Romanians' trust in Russia, following last year's presidential elections, is at an absolute minimum since INSCOP began measuring trust in countries—only 5.9%, which is 11 times less than trust in the EU and three times less than trust in Russia in January 2022, according to data from a new survey that will soon be published.

The data was announced by Remus Ioan Ștefureac, director of INSCOP Research survey house. A political scientist, Ștefureac said that the results counter the findings of another survey announced by Bucharest mayor Nicusor Dan, which placed pro-Russian far-right politician Calin Georgescu in first place in terms of confidence, with over 40%. 

“In reality, Romanians' pro-European attitude has strengthened compared to three years ago. I'm referring to Romanians' attitudes measured by INSCOP Research after the failed 2024 presidential elections,” Ștefureac said.

He clarified that a new INSCOP survey, conducted with the support of NGO Funky Citizens, will soon be released, indicating that trust in Russia among Romanians has reached an absolute low—only 5.9%.

Georgescu's sudden rise on the Romanian political scene following the now-annulled presidential elections led many commentators to say that Romanians' pro-EU sentiment has been deeply affected. However, Ștefureac argues that the two should not be confounded.

“The main divide is not about pro-EU vs. pro-Russia. The real issues are others—admittedly complex and challenging—but they are more connected to the economy, enlightened patriotism, and the genuine modernization of the country,” he explained. 

radu@romania-insider.com

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