Romania political crisis deepens as Social Democratic Party withdraws support for prime minister

Romania’s Social Democratic Party (PSD) voted to withdraw political support for Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan following an internal ballot, according to local media reports on Monday.

The decision followed an online vote involving around 5,000 party members, in which 97.7% supported withdrawing backing for the prime minister, while 2.3% opposed the move, broadcaster Antena 3 CNN reported.

Speaking after the vote, PSD leader Sorin Grindeanu said the outcome leaves no room for ambiguity and signaled that the party would act in line with members’ decision in the coming days.

The development deepens an ongoing political crisis in Romania.

Earlier on Monday, President Nicusor Dan said consultations among political parties would follow the PSD’s decision, noting that multiple rounds of talks could be held to reach a resolution.

He added that all options remain on the table, except for including the far-right AUR party in government.

Dan also indicated that appointing another prime minister instead of Bolojan is “one of many scenarios,” while emphasizing that his personal relationship with the premier “has nothing to do with this whole context.”

Despite mounting pressure, Bolojan has refused to step down, saying he will remain in office and replace any departing ministers with interim appointees in accordance with constitutional provisions if PSD follows through on its plan.

PSD officials, however, have warned they could escalate the standoff.

Senator Daniel Zamfir said the government “has lost its majority and cannot function without parliamentary support,” adding that filing a motion of censure remains a “possible fact” if Bolojan refuses to resign.

Coalition tensions have spilled across the political spectrum.

The National Liberal Party (PNL) convened an emergency meeting to discuss its response, while the Save Romania Union (USR) said it would continue supporting Bolojan in an interim capacity even if PSD exits the government.

The Democratic Alliance of Hungarians in Romania (UDMR) said it would not back any motion of censure but stressed that “without PSD, no government can be formed.”

UDMR officials also called for restraint, warning that prolonged disputes could strengthen the far-right AUR party.

At the same time, President Dan acknowledged that Romania could enter a period of “political turbulence" but stressed there remains consensus among parties on key priorities, including maintaining the country’s fiscal trajectory and implementing EU-funded recovery programs.

He said further consultations will be held in the coming days to seek a stable governing formula and prevent prolonged instability.