Russia’s influence in Eastern and Central Europe is steadily growing and NATO is feeling the heat. From Romania’s electoral upheavals to Georgia's protests and Germany’s shifting politics, Moscow's grip is tightening, with alarming consequences for Europe’s stability.
Romania, a vital NATO member, faced a political earthquake when the country’s constitutional court annulled its presidential election just two days before the runoff. The reason? Allegations of Russian interference. A previously unknown pro-Putin candidate, Calin Georgescu, had surged to the top, raising suspicions that Russia’s hands were in the mix. With TikTok accounts and social media campaigns allegedly funded by Moscow, Romania’s democratic process was compromised. The court’s bold move to scrap the election was a rare, unprecedented action, forcing Romanians to wait months for fresh elections. While Georgescu denied any wrongdoing, many believe his sudden rise points to Moscow’s expanding influence in Romania, which shares a long border with Ukraine.
To the south, Georgia has been grappling with its own set of problems. After a pro-Russia party won the 2024 elections, violent protests erupted across the country. The protests grew out of the government’s decision to suspend Georgia’s EU accession talks, a move that many argue plays into Russia’s hands. As protests continued into the New Year, it became clear that many Georgians were rejecting Russia’s influence and demanding a pro-European government. The situation remains volatile, as Moscow’s shadow looms large over Georgia’s political future.
Meanwhile, in Germany, Russia’s influence has taken a subtler, but no less significant, form. The far-right party Alternative for Germany (AfD) has been gaining momentum, slowly but surely making strides in regional elections. Even high-profile figures like Elon Musk have expressed support for the party, further fueling concerns. Though the AfD is still far from gaining full control, its rise signals a growing divide within Germany and Europe at large, with some questioning their alliances with NATO and the EU.
As the situation unfolds, the potential for a pro-Russia shift in German politics is becoming a real worry for NATO. As Russia’s influence spreads across Eastern Europe, NATO is finding itself in a precarious position. With elections being meddled with, protests on the rise, and political divides deepening, Moscow's reach is undeniable. The future of these countries—and of NATO itself—may depend on how they confront Russia's growing power.
