Romanian authorities have detained six individuals accused of conspiring with Russia to overthrow the Romanian government and undermine the country’s sovereignty. The suspects were arrested by Romania’s anti-organized crime agency, DIICOT, on Wednesday for allegedly forming a criminal group with ties to Russia.
The group, which was reportedly established in 2023, is accused of seeking to destabilize Romania’s political system by removing the current government, dissolving political parties, and replacing the constitutional order with a new regime. Romanian intelligence services (SRI) reported that the suspects had approached Russian embassy officials for support to further these objectives, including negotiating Romania’s withdrawal from NATO, which it joined in 2004.
Two of the suspects allegedly traveled to Moscow in January 2025 to meet with individuals who backed their plot to seize power. Investigators have also uncovered evidence linking the group to a military-type structure that sought to change Romania’s constitution and national symbols, including its name, flag, and anthem.
The arrests came as Romanian authorities carried out raids on multiple homes in Bucharest and surrounding counties, seizing several items linked to the alleged conspiracy. In a separate move, Romania expelled two Russian diplomats accused of engaging in intelligence-gathering activities related to the group’s anti-constitutional plans. The Russian embassy condemned the expulsions, labeling them “unfounded.”
Tensions between Romania and Russia have been escalating, especially as Romania participates in the annual “Freedom Shield” military drills with the United States, which have been criticized by Moscow. These drills, running from March 10 to 20, are intended to strengthen the US-South Korean defense posture but have prompted strong reactions from North Korea in the past.
In addition, Romania has been dealing with ongoing investigations into controversial political figure Calin Georgescu, who was recently accused of supporting fascist groups and making false declarations regarding electoral campaign funding. He is also under investigation for alleged links to Russian interference in Romania’s presidential election. Georgescu has denied the charges, claiming the case is politically motivated.
With tensions high between Romania and Russia, the investigation into the coup plot is ongoing, and authorities are continuing to gather evidence as they work to prevent any further destabilizing activities.
