Romanians vote in parliamentary elections on Sunday, with the governing pro-European liberals tipped to win despite criticism for their handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Polling stations open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close at 9:00 pm, when an exit poll will be published by the local media.

The first official results are expected later in the evening.

The vote has been organised to take in the now familiar virus safety measures of social distancing, mask-wearing and hand disinfectant.

In a region where populists and nationalists have recently gained ground, liberal Prime Minister Ludovic Orban has pledged to modernise one of the EU's poorest countries and keep it on a "pro-European" path.

Orban has been running a minority government for the past year.

A recent opinion poll published by the IMAS institute showed his National Liberal Party (PNL) garnering 28 percent of the vote, ahead of the main opposition Social Democratic Party (PSD) at 23 percent.

The recently-formed centre-right alliance USR-Plus are forecast to win 18 percent, which would bolster their growing influence in Romanian politics.

Both the virus and widespread disillusionment with politics are expected to weigh on turnout, which is not expected to exceed 40 percent.

- Fresh attack -

The liberals have the advantage of being supported by President Klaus Iohannis, who has brushed aside criticism that he is disrespecting his constitutional role by campaigning for the PNL.

On Friday, the last day of the campaign, he launched a new attack on the PSD, saying he hoped "Romania will definitively separate from those who have tried to derail it from its European and democratic course".

The left-wing PSD is the heir to the former Communist Party and has dominated Romanian politics over the past 30 years.

It won by a landslide in the previous election in 2016, but its years in power were marked by massive anti-corruption protests and spats with Brussels over controversial judicial reforms.

Weakened further by the imprisonment on corruption charges of its former leader Liviu Dragnea, the PSD was removed from power through a no-confidence vote at the end of 2019 and is now trying to bounce back.

"The stakes in the elections are huge," Orban said in a recent interview with AFP.

"A high turnout is crucial for Romania to continue moving in the right direction, namely respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, rule of law, and being a loyal member of the EU and NATO", he said.

The new head of the PSD, Marcel Ciolacu, who has carefully distanced himself from Dragnea, has accused the government of "incompetence" and failing to keep the spread of the coronavirus under control.

"The real virus that Romania is facing is (...) the PNL," he said recently said on Facebook.

"To stem the pandemic, we must first prevent the liberals from staying in power, from closing schools, churches and markets," he said, reflecting the PSD's sceptical attitude towards anti-coronavirus measures.

The current government insists a full-blown second lockdown is not on the table and has so far&nbsp;resorted to night curfews and local restrictions to try to stem the effects of the second wave.

Epidemiologists fear this will not be enough to ward off an explosion of cases in the weeks to come. Understaffed and with poor infrastructure, Romania's hospitals are already struggling to cope with the influx of patients in intensive care units.

Romanians vote in parliamentary elections on Sunday, with the governing pro-European liberals tipped to win despite criticism for their handling of the coronavirus pandemic.

Romanians vote in parliamentary elections on Sunday, with the governing pro-European liberals tipped to win despite criticism for their handling of the coronavirus pandemic. Polling stations open at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and close at 9:00 pm, when an exit poll will be published by the local media. The first official results are expected later in the evening. The vote has been organised to take in the now familiar virus safety measures of social distancing, mask-wearing and hand disinfectant. In a region where populists and nationalists have recently gained ground, liberal Prime Minister Ludovic Orban has pledged to modernise one of the EU's poorest countries and keep it on a "pro-European" path. Orban has been running a minority government for the past year. A recent opinion poll published by the IMAS institute showed his National Liberal Party (PNL) garnering 28 percent of the vote, ahead of the main opposition Social Democratic Party (PSD) at 23 percent. The recently-formed centre-right alliance USR-Plus are forecast to win 18 percent, which would bolster their growing influence in Romanian politics. Both the virus and widespread disillusionment with politics are expected to weigh on turnout, which is not expected to exceed 40 percent. - Fresh attack - The liberals have the advantage of being supported by President Klaus Iohannis, who has brushed aside criticism that he is disrespecting his constitutional role by campaigning for the PNL. On Friday, the last day of the campaign, he launched a new attack on the PSD, saying he hoped "Romania will definitively separate from those who have tried to derail it from its European and democratic course". The left-wing PSD is the heir to the former Communist Party and has dominated Romanian politics over the past 30 years. It won by a landslide in the previous election in 2016, but its years in power were marked by massive anti-corruption protests and spats with Brussels over controversial judicial reforms. Weakened further by the imprisonment on corruption charges of its former leader Liviu Dragnea, the PSD was removed from power through a no-confidence vote at the end of 2019 and is now trying to bounce back. "The stakes in the elections are huge," Orban said in a recent interview with AFP. "A high turnout is crucial for Romania to continue moving in the right direction, namely respect for fundamental rights and freedoms, rule of law, and being a loyal member of the EU and NATO", he said. The new head of the PSD, Marcel Ciolacu, who has carefully distanced himself from Dragnea, has accused the government of "incompetence" and failing to keep the spread of the coronavirus under control. "The real virus that Romania is facing is (...) the PNL," he said recently said on Facebook. "To stem the pandemic, we must first prevent the liberals from staying in power, from closing schools, churches and markets," he said, reflecting the PSD's sceptical attitude towards anti-coronavirus measures. The current government insists a full-blown second lockdown is not on the table and has so far resorted to night curfews and local restrictions to try to stem the effects of the second wave. Epidemiologists fear this will not be enough to ward off an explosion of cases in the weeks to come. Understaffed and with poor infrastructure, Romania's hospitals are already struggling to cope with the influx of patients in intensive care units.

Romanians head to polls in shadow of pandemic

The number of candidates included on the lists for the parliamentary elections is 7.136. On average, 15 candidates compete for a seat in the Parliament.

Romania: Low voter turnout expected due to pandemic

Sweet profits: US candy shop installs personal metal monolith to attract customers

2 monoliths have mysteriously appeared and then disappeared in 2 places over the last month. Some say aliens are involved, others point at pranksters. What explains this monolith mystery? Molly Gambhir has a report.

Gravitas: After Utah, Romania monolith disappears too

A metal monolith which caused frenzy after appearing in the middle of a desert in Utah, US, has now disappeared from another destination in Romania!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/dont-leave-trash-in-the-desert-utah-monolith-removal-explained-346822" hreflang="en">'Don't leave trash in the desert': Utah monolith removal explained</a>

After spawning conspiracy theories and dramatic takes about an alien invasion, the monolith randomly appeared in Romania. A shroud of mystery remained - Was it the same monolith? How did it travel from Utah to Romania so quickly? And more importantly - Where is it now?

After a brief stint in Romania, the monolith quickly went off the radar again, causing speculations among Internet dwellers that it is preparing to make a comeback in some other part of the world soon.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/watch-the-strange-metal-monolith-in-utah-and-the-conspiracy-theories-that-followed-345242" hreflang="en">Watch the strange metal monolith in Utah and the conspiracy theories that followed</a>

The monolith, after appearing in Utah caused a storm on social media. However, a few days after the pictures and videos circulated of the monolith, the&nbsp;Bureau of Land Management in Utah was informed that the monolith had disappeared.&nbsp;

But later,&nbsp;a similar-looking monolith had appeared in Romania within 24 hours of the disappearance. This new monolith was discovered on the top of a small hill in Romania and seemed to be hastily constructed, as opposed to the smooth structure found - and then “stolen” - in Utah.

Owing to the difference in both the structures, is it just some elaborate prank by artists to gleefully distract us from a raging pandemic with no end in sight? Perhaps yes!

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/mystery-continues-strange-metal-monolith-now-spotted-in-romania-after-disappearing-from-utah-desert-346664" hreflang="en">Mystery continues: Strange metal monolith now spotted in Romania after disappearing from Utah desert</a>

Romania's structure also has a mirrored effect, whereas the one found in Utah was a shiny structure that was made out of metal.&nbsp; Some believe the Romania monolith may be a “copy” of the original, constructed by someone after spotting&nbsp;the viral images of the original one.

All said and done, one question remains: Where could it appear next?

A metal monolith which caused frenzy after appearing in the middle of a desert in Utah, US, has now disappeared from another destination in Romania! Also read: 'Don't leave trash in the desert': Utah monolith removal explained After spawning conspiracy theories and dramatic takes about an alien invasion, the monolith randomly appeared in Romania.

A metal monolith which caused frenzy after appearing in the middle of a desert in Utah, US, has now disappeared from another destination in Romania! Also read: 'Don't leave trash in the desert': Utah monolith removal explained After spawning conspiracy theories and dramatic takes about an alien invasion, the monolith randomly appeared in Romania. A shroud of mystery remained - Was it the same monolith? How did it travel from Utah to Romania so quickly? And more importantly - Where is it now? After a brief stint in Romania, the monolith quickly went off the radar again, causing speculations among Internet dwellers that it is preparing to make a comeback in some other part of the world soon. Also read: Watch the strange metal monolith in Utah and the conspiracy theories that followed The monolith, after appearing in Utah caused a storm on social media. However, a few days after the pictures and videos circulated of the monolith, the Bureau of Land Management in Utah was informed that the monolith had disappeared. But later, a similar-looking monolith had appeared in Romania within 24 hours of the disappearance. This new monolith was discovered on the top of a small hill in Romania and seemed to be hastily constructed, as opposed to the smooth structure found - and then “stolen” - in Utah. Owing to the difference in both the structures, is it just some elaborate prank by artists to gleefully distract us from a raging pandemic with no end in sight? Perhaps yes! Also read: Mystery continues: Strange metal monolith now spotted in Romania after disappearing from Utah desert Romania's structure also has a mirrored effect, whereas the one found in Utah was a shiny structure that was made out of metal. Some believe the Romania monolith may be a “copy” of the original, constructed by someone after spotting the viral images of the original one. All said and done, one question remains: Where could it appear next?

After Utah, the metal monolith has now disappeared from Romania. Where could it appear next?

After a strange metal monolith randomly appeared in the Utah desert of the US a few weeks back, people were left amazed and shocked, and scientists were perplexed about how did the monolith suddenly appear.

However, a few days after the pictures and videos circulated of the monolith, the&nbsp;Bureau of Land Management in Utah was informed that the monolith had disappeared. But now, continuing the mystery around this strange object,&nbsp;a similar-looking monolith has appeared in Romania within 24 hours of the disappearance.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/mysterious-monolith-reportedly-disappears-from-utah-desert-346180">Mysterious monolith reportedly disappears from Utah desert</a>

This new monolith was discovered on the top of a small hill in Romania and seems to be hastily constructed, as opposed to the smooth structure found — and then 'stolen' — in Utah.

Romania's structure also has a mirrored effect, whereas the one found in Utah was a shiny structure that was made out of metal. This 'new' monolith also has graffiti drawn on it, which was not spotted on the 'original' structure.

Some believe this monolith may be a 'copy' of the original, constructed by someone after spotting&nbsp;the viral images of the original one.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-the-strange-metal-monolith-in-utah-and-the-conspiracy-theories-that-followed-345242">Watch the strange metal monolith in Utah and the conspiracy theories that followed</a>

"We recognize the incredible interest the ‘monolith’ has generated world-wide. Many people have been enjoying the mystery and view it as a welcome distraction from the 2020 news cycle,"&nbsp;Monticello Field Manager Amber Denton Johnson was quoted by local media. "Even so, it was installed without authorization on public lands and the site is in a remote area without services for the large number of people who now want to see it. Whenever you visit public lands please follow Leave No Trace principles and Federal and local laws and guidance."

Meanwhile the&nbsp;Bureau of Land Management in Utah have made it clear that the structure was not removed by any of heir official and they will "not investigate crimes involving private property which are handled by the local sheriff's office."

After a strange metal monolith randomly appeared in the Utah desert of the US a few weeks back, people were left amazed and shocked, and scientists were perplexed about how did the monolith suddenly appear.

After a strange metal monolith randomly appeared in the Utah desert of the US a few weeks back, people were left amazed and shocked, and scientists were perplexed about how did the monolith suddenly appear. However, a few days after the pictures and videos circulated of the monolith, the Bureau of Land Management in Utah was informed that the monolith had disappeared. But now, continuing the mystery around this strange object, a similar-looking monolith has appeared in Romania within 24 hours of the disappearance. Also read| Mysterious monolith reportedly disappears from Utah desert This new monolith was discovered on the top of a small hill in Romania and seems to be hastily constructed, as opposed to the smooth structure found — and then 'stolen' — in Utah. Romania's structure also has a mirrored effect, whereas the one found in Utah was a shiny structure that was made out of metal. This 'new' monolith also has graffiti drawn on it, which was not spotted on the 'original' structure. Some believe this monolith may be a 'copy' of the original, constructed by someone after spotting the viral images of the original one. Also read| Watch the strange metal monolith in Utah and the conspiracy theories that followed "We recognize the incredible interest the ‘monolith’ has generated world-wide. Many people have been enjoying the mystery and view it as a welcome distraction from the 2020 news cycle," Monticello Field Manager Amber Denton Johnson was quoted by local media. "Even so, it was installed without authorization on public lands and the site is in a remote area without services for the large number of people who now want to see it. Whenever you visit public lands please follow Leave No Trace principles and Federal and local laws and guidance." Meanwhile the Bureau of Land Management in Utah have made it clear that the structure was not removed by any of heir official and they will "not investigate crimes involving private property which are handled by the local sheriff's office."

Mystery continues: Strange metal monolith now spotted in Romania after disappearing from Utah desert

Much has been made of the royal proportions of Josh O’Connor’s ears: Like those of Prince Charles, whom he plays in 'The Crown,' they stick out.

But ears do not a king-in-waiting make. Rather, the actor concluded, it’s his posture.

Mostly upright when he debuted in Season 3, playing Charles as a Cambridge student, O’Connor has since charted the prince’s emotional state through a progressively pronounced stoop, inching his neck forward as expectations from the House of Windsor gnawed at Charles’ contentment. By the time Mummy — Queen Elizabeth II, played by Olivia Colman — places the coronet upon her son’s head at his investiture as the Prince of Wales, you wonder if he has the strength to support it.

“It has to do with the more weight on his shoulders, the more it brings him down, the more his neck comes out,” O’Connor said. “By the end he’s pathetic, sort of like a crumpled man.”

It gets even worse in Season 4 of 'The Crown,' now on Netflix, which brings a less sympathetic Charles, surly and sniveling as he bridles at his marriage to the limelight-stealing Princess Diana (Emma Corrin) while not so secretly yearning for Camilla Parker Bowles (Emerald Fennell), the love that never quite got away. (And who will presumably marry Charles in some future season, as she did in real life in 2005.)

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/hollywood/news-the-crown-season-4-review-show-delivers-its-best-as-diana-thatcher-take-away-the-queens-thunder-343648">'The Crown' season 4 review: Show delivers its best as Diana, Thatcher take away the Queen's thunder</a>

For O’Connor, 30, this season is the end of his run in a role he never really sought. A self-described liberal left-winger, the actor declined to read for Charles when he was initially asked.

“I thought, I can’t add anything to this,” he said in a video call from London. “I’m a republican. I’m not interested in the royal family.”

But he eventually acquiesced, and Peter Morgan, the show’s creator and writer, presented him with a scene. In it, Charles compares himself to a character in Saul Bellow’s “Dangling Man,” waiting to be drafted because going to war will give his life meaning.

“And then he says, ‘I’m essentially waiting for my mother to die in order for my life to take meaning,’” O’Connor said. “I read that line and I was like, ‘Well, that’s enough to get your teeth into.’”

The current season finds the prince increasingly exasperated with these circumstances, in terms of both the unhappy marriage that was thrust upon him and his continuing insignificance within the realm.

“We were telling a kind of unheard, voiceless Charles,” O’Connor said. “But that’s the beauty of it, that’s where he struggles: He doesn’t feel listened to.”

Charles isn’t imagining things. As his mother icily informs him in one gutting encounter, no one wants to hear his voice. &lt;em&gt;No one.&lt;/em&gt;

O’Connor and Colman had a running joke that all of their scenes together were variations on the same sad theme. “Charles comes in, says, ‘Mummy, I need to talk to you,’ and she says, ‘No,’ and then he leaves,” he explained. Over and over.

As the queen, Colman said, “my job was to be quite strong, but I found it quite hard not to give him a cuddle.” Method actors they were not. “The second they’d say cut, we’d go: ‘Should we have a cup of tea? There are biscuits on the craft table!’ We’d much rather have a giggle.”

“He’s one of the most beautiful actors to work opposite,” she added. “He’s out there with the greats, in my mind.”

O’Connor grew up happily as the middle of three brothers in Cheltenham, a spa town on the edge of the Cotswolds. He trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, whose alums include two of his idols, Pete Postlethwaite and Daniel Day-Lewis.

“Maybe it was a match made in heaven, I don’t know,” he said. “But I did love it.”

Not long after graduation, small TV roles in “Peaky Blinders” and “Ripper Street” trickled in. Eventually he snagged a lead as the oldest son in “The Durrells in Corfu,” a period drama by ITV and Masterpiece, about a British family’s move to the titular Greek island in the 1930s.

But his real breakthrough came in Francis Lee’s 2017 feature debut, “God’s Own Country.” O’Connor is scarcely recognizable as Johnny Saxby, a gay, brooding binge drinker toiling on his family’s Yorkshire farm, whose calcified heart is pried open by a Romanian migrant worker.

Lee had invited O’Connor to audition based on a photograph. “I liked his ears a lot,” he said. But the tape O’Connor sent was worrisome.

“He delivered this incredibly brilliant portrayal of an emotionally repressed and difficult man, and I thought he must just be playing himself,” he said. “And that concerned me slightly.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/the-crown-season-6-heres-everything-to-know-about-the-final-season-343447">'The Crown' Season 6: Here's everything to know about the final season</a>

When the two finally met, Lee was shocked “because in walks this incredibly funny, upbeat, polite, middle-class boy, which was a million miles away from the character that he was going to play,” he said. “He’s one of those rare actors that is a real shape-shifter.”

“God’s Own Country” earned O’Connor a British Independent Film Award for best actor in 2017. Two years later, he won another for “Only You,” about a couple struggling with infertility.

O’Connor debuted in “The Crown” in late 2019. Morgan can’t recall having considered anyone else for this iteration of Charles — or noticing O’Connor’s ears, although he imagines he must have.

Rather, “I was drawn to his sensitivity and the fact that he was complex but likable, and I just felt instantly intrigued,” Morgan said. “And the minute he started doing some readings for us, it was a no-brainer. He was a list of one.”

O’Connor had watched “The Crown” in support of his good friend Vanessa Kirby, who played Princess Margaret in Seasons 1 and 2. “And then I became a loyal fan,” he said. While he has difficulty aligning his belief in a classless society with the royal family, he doesn’t think “The Crown” glamorizes them, despite its pageantry and splendor.

“What Peter does is he strips all that back,” he said. “It’s about humans who struggle and have very odd relationships with their parents and power and politics. That’s the juice.

“But I think you can have those beliefs and have great respect and affection and love even for these people. I think the queen is an extraordinary woman. Time after time, lots of men have failed, and this one woman in power has been consistent and remained dutiful and generally apolitical.

“In that sense, I have huge respect for her — and for Charles, to be honest. I mean, Charles is another level of someone who’s literally been waiting his entire life for this moment that still hasn’t come.”

Much has been made of the royal proportions of Josh O’Connor’s ears: Like those of Prince Charles, whom he plays in 'The Crown,' they stick out. But ears do not a king-in-waiting make.

Much has been made of the royal proportions of Josh O’Connor’s ears: Like those of Prince Charles, whom he plays in 'The Crown,' they stick out. But ears do not a king-in-waiting make. Rather, the actor concluded, it’s his posture. Mostly upright when he debuted in Season 3, playing Charles as a Cambridge student, O’Connor has since charted the prince’s emotional state through a progressively pronounced stoop, inching his neck forward as expectations from the House of Windsor gnawed at Charles’ contentment. By the time Mummy — Queen Elizabeth II, played by Olivia Colman — places the coronet upon her son’s head at his investiture as the Prince of Wales, you wonder if he has the strength to support it. “It has to do with the more weight on his shoulders, the more it brings him down, the more his neck comes out,” O’Connor said. “By the end he’s pathetic, sort of like a crumpled man.” It gets even worse in Season 4 of 'The Crown,' now on Netflix, which brings a less sympathetic Charles, surly and sniveling as he bridles at his marriage to the limelight-stealing Princess Diana (Emma Corrin) while not so secretly yearning for Camilla Parker Bowles (Emerald Fennell), the love that never quite got away. (And who will presumably marry Charles in some future season, as she did in real life in 2005.) 'The Crown' season 4 review: Show delivers its best as Diana, Thatcher take away the Queen's thunder For O’Connor, 30, this season is the end of his run in a role he never really sought. A self-described liberal left-winger, the actor declined to read for Charles when he was initially asked. “I thought, I can’t add anything to this,” he said in a video call from London. “I’m a republican. I’m not interested in the royal family.” But he eventually acquiesced, and Peter Morgan, the show’s creator and writer, presented him with a scene. In it, Charles compares himself to a character in Saul Bellow’s “Dangling Man,” waiting to be drafted because going to war will give his life meaning. “And then he says, ‘I’m essentially waiting for my mother to die in order for my life to take meaning,’” O’Connor said. “I read that line and I was like, ‘Well, that’s enough to get your teeth into.’” The current season finds the prince increasingly exasperated with these circumstances, in terms of both the unhappy marriage that was thrust upon him and his continuing insignificance within the realm. “We were telling a kind of unheard, voiceless Charles,” O’Connor said. “But that’s the beauty of it, that’s where he struggles: He doesn’t feel listened to.” Charles isn’t imagining things. As his mother icily informs him in one gutting encounter, no one wants to hear his voice. No one. O’Connor and Colman had a running joke that all of their scenes together were variations on the same sad theme. “Charles comes in, says, ‘Mummy, I need to talk to you,’ and she says, ‘No,’ and then he leaves,” he explained. Over and over. As the queen, Colman said, “my job was to be quite strong, but I found it quite hard not to give him a cuddle.” Method actors they were not. “The second they’d say cut, we’d go: ‘Should we have a cup of tea? There are biscuits on the craft table!’ We’d much rather have a giggle.” “He’s one of the most beautiful actors to work opposite,” she added. “He’s out there with the greats, in my mind.” O’Connor grew up happily as the middle of three brothers in Cheltenham, a spa town on the edge of the Cotswolds. He trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, whose alums include two of his idols, Pete Postlethwaite and Daniel Day-Lewis. “Maybe it was a match made in heaven, I don’t know,” he said. “But I did love it.” Not long after graduation, small TV roles in “Peaky Blinders” and “Ripper Street” trickled in. Eventually he snagged a lead as the oldest son in “The Durrells in Corfu,” a period drama by ITV and Masterpiece, about a British family’s move to the titular Greek island in the 1930s. But his real breakthrough came in Francis Lee’s 2017 feature debut, “God’s Own Country.” O’Connor is scarcely recognizable as Johnny Saxby, a gay, brooding binge drinker toiling on his family’s Yorkshire farm, whose calcified heart is pried open by a Romanian migrant worker. Lee had invited O’Connor to audition based on a photograph. “I liked his ears a lot,” he said. But the tape O’Connor sent was worrisome. “He delivered this incredibly brilliant portrayal of an emotionally repressed and difficult man, and I thought he must just be playing himself,” he said. “And that concerned me slightly.” 'The Crown' Season 6: Here's everything to know about the final season When the two finally met, Lee was shocked “because in walks this incredibly funny, upbeat, polite, middle-class boy, which was a million miles away from the character that he was going to play,” he said. “He’s one of those rare actors that is a real shape-shifter.” “God’s Own Country” earned O’Connor a British Independent Film Award for best actor in 2017. Two years later, he won another for “Only You,” about a couple struggling with infertility. O’Connor debuted in “The Crown” in late 2019. Morgan can’t recall having considered anyone else for this iteration of Charles — or noticing O’Connor’s ears, although he imagines he must have. Rather, “I was drawn to his sensitivity and the fact that he was complex but likable, and I just felt instantly intrigued,” Morgan said. “And the minute he started doing some readings for us, it was a no-brainer. He was a list of one.” O’Connor had watched “The Crown” in support of his good friend Vanessa Kirby, who played Princess Margaret in Seasons 1 and 2. “And then I became a loyal fan,” he said. While he has difficulty aligning his belief in a classless society with the royal family, he doesn’t think “The Crown” glamorizes them, despite its pageantry and splendor. “What Peter does is he strips all that back,” he said. “It’s about humans who struggle and have very odd relationships with their parents and power and politics. That’s the juice. “But I think you can have those beliefs and have great respect and affection and love even for these people. I think the queen is an extraordinary woman. Time after time, lots of men have failed, and this one woman in power has been consistent and remained dutiful and generally apolitical. “In that sense, I have huge respect for her — and for Charles, to be honest. I mean, Charles is another level of someone who’s literally been waiting his entire life for this moment that still hasn’t come.”

Josh O’Connor didn’t care about 'The Crown' until he became a Prince

A doctor from a Covid-19 hospital in Romania is being hailed a hero after he tried to help Covid-19 patients to safety as fire broke out in Intensive Care Unit of the hospital. The doctor, identified by local media as Catalin Denciu himself suffered second and third degree burns to 40 per cent of his body. He has now been transferred to Belgium's Queen Astrid military hospital&nbsp;

The fire in the hospital claimed lives of ten&nbsp;Covid-19 patients and seriously injured six others.

"I express my respect for the heroic doctor who showed particular courage and spirit of sacrifice in trying to save the patients," Prime Minister Ludovic Orban told local media, in praise echoed by doctors' unions and local media.

The prosecutor general has opened an enquiry into the tragedy, while the health ministry has suggested the fire could have been caused by an electrical short circuit.

The blaze recalled Romania's previous deadliest fire, at Bucharest's Colectiv nightclub in October 2015, which left 64 people dead, and prompted angry questions over how it could have been allowed to happen.

A survivor of the Colectiv disaster, Alexandra Furnea, called on authorities "to do what they didn't do for us" and show that lessons had been learned over the past five years.

"Do not hide behind self-serving lies, don't mention outdated protocols in order to justify a crime," Furnea wrote in a Facebook post.

Local media reported that the preliminary inquiry showed that the fire safety plans for the second floor of the building, where the fire broke out, had not been updated for 30 years.

In another Facebook post, fellow Colectiv survivor Mihai Grecea called for the resignation of Health Minister Nelu Tataru.

Shock and sympathy

Local media have also revealed serious problems in the management of the hospital.

The facility has had eight directors over the past year, one of whom served for just three days in May.&nbsp; 
Romania's political class reacted with statements of shock and sympathy for the victims.

President Klaus Iohannis said he was "profoundly saddened" by the tragedy, which he said had "touched the whole country".

"I am at the side of all those who have been affected by this terrible accident," Iohannis said on his Facebook page.

The incident prompted the centre-left Social Democrats (PSD) and liberal USR-Plus parties to suspend campaigning for parliamentary elections early next month.

The tragedy hit as Romania struggles to cope with the impact of a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic.

According to Digi24 TV, the hospital is seeking temporary storage for the victims' bodies as the hospital morgue was already full before the fire.

Largely spared the worst during the first wave of the pandemic, Romania has seen mounting numbers of infections and hospitalisations in recent months.&nbsp;

On Saturday, it reported 129 new virus deaths, bringing the total death toll to 8,813.

The country of 19 million is one of the poorest in the European Union and its dilapidated and understaffed health system is ill-equipped to deal with a spike in hospital admissions.

(With AFP inputs)

A doctor from a Covid-19 hospital in Romania is being hailed a hero after he tried to help Covid-19 patients to safety as fire broke out in Intensive Care Unit of the hospital.

A doctor from a Covid-19 hospital in Romania is being hailed a hero after he tried to help Covid-19 patients to safety as fire broke out in Intensive Care Unit of the hospital. The doctor, identified by local media as Catalin Denciu himself suffered second and third degree burns to 40 per cent of his body. He has now been transferred to Belgium's Queen Astrid military hospital The fire in the hospital claimed lives of ten Covid-19 patients and seriously injured six others. "I express my respect for the heroic doctor who showed particular courage and spirit of sacrifice in trying to save the patients," Prime Minister Ludovic Orban told local media, in praise echoed by doctors' unions and local media. The prosecutor general has opened an enquiry into the tragedy, while the health ministry has suggested the fire could have been caused by an electrical short circuit. The blaze recalled Romania's previous deadliest fire, at Bucharest's Colectiv nightclub in October 2015, which left 64 people dead, and prompted angry questions over how it could have been allowed to happen. A survivor of the Colectiv disaster, Alexandra Furnea, called on authorities "to do what they didn't do for us" and show that lessons had been learned over the past five years. "Do not hide behind self-serving lies, don't mention outdated protocols in order to justify a crime," Furnea wrote in a Facebook post. Local media reported that the preliminary inquiry showed that the fire safety plans for the second floor of the building, where the fire broke out, had not been updated for 30 years. In another Facebook post, fellow Colectiv survivor Mihai Grecea called for the resignation of Health Minister Nelu Tataru. Shock and sympathy Local media have also revealed serious problems in the management of the hospital. The facility has had eight directors over the past year, one of whom served for just three days in May. Romania's political class reacted with statements of shock and sympathy for the victims. President Klaus Iohannis said he was "profoundly saddened" by the tragedy, which he said had "touched the whole country". "I am at the side of all those who have been affected by this terrible accident," Iohannis said on his Facebook page. The incident prompted the centre-left Social Democrats (PSD) and liberal USR-Plus parties to suspend campaigning for parliamentary elections early next month. The tragedy hit as Romania struggles to cope with the impact of a second wave of the coronavirus pandemic. According to Digi24 TV, the hospital is seeking temporary storage for the victims' bodies as the hospital morgue was already full before the fire. Largely spared the worst during the first wave of the pandemic, Romania has seen mounting numbers of infections and hospitalisations in recent months. On Saturday, it reported 129 new virus deaths, bringing the total death toll to 8,813. The country of 19 million is one of the poorest in the European Union and its dilapidated and understaffed health system is ill-equipped to deal with a spike in hospital admissions. (With AFP inputs)

Romania hospital fire: Doctor hailed a hero as he helps save patients

UEFA has decided to cancel Norway's Nations League match against Romania after the Norwegian squad failed to travel to Bucharest as a COVID-19 case was found in the squad.

UEFA has decided to cancel Norway's Nations League match against Romania after the Norwegian squad failed to travel to Bucharest as a COVID-19 case was found in the squad. Also read: Nations League: France beat Portugal 1-0 to book finals spot Norway risks a forfeit (3-0 loss) by not fulfilling the match scheduled on Sunday in Romania and there are no available dates in the international calendar to conduct the game. According to UEFA, the case has been sent to its disciplinary committee for a decision. The forfeit will cost Norway as the team is currently level with Austria at the top of their group in second-tier League B. Norway will face Austria due to meet in Vienna on Tuesday in the final round. The group winner gets two rewards: Promotion to the top tier of the next Nations League and a potential place in World Cup qualifying playoffs scheduled in March 2022 to advance to the tournament in Qatar later that year. (Inputs from PTI)

UEFA decides to cancel Norway's match against Romania

Andrei Togor could not be happier after he recently discovered Asprete, one of the rarest fish in Europe that was on the brink of extinction

Togo, the 31-year-old fish biologist, found 65-million-year-old Asprete's 12 specimens in late October in Valsan river.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/science/consuming-jellyfish-more-sustainable-alternative-to-fish-study-338249#:~:text=Eating%20jellyfish%20is%20a%20more,jellyfish%20should%20be%20increased%20worldwide.">Consuming jellyfish more sustainable alternative to fish: Study</a>

"Having an Asprete in front of our eyes was fantastic," he said, as quoted by the BBC.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amid-pandemic-luxury-resort-in-kerala-turns-swimming-pool-into-fish-farm-322780">Amid pandemic, luxury resort in Kerala turns swimming pool into fish farm</a>

"It's one of the biggest rewards a field biologist can get."

Asprete was first found by a biology student in 1956 and the nocturnal fish faces the threat of extinction.&nbsp;

Official figures say that the population of the rare fish is at around 10-15 specimens, which used to be about 200 specimens in the early 2000s.

But a small group of scientists and conservationists are campaigning to protect the fish species, also known as Romanichthys valsanicola.

The fish can be described as a living fossil, which means it has survived for millions of years without any major changes. But just in the last six decades, human activity has severely caused a decline in its habitat and population.

It finds itself on the Berne Convention of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats list of critically endangered species.&nbsp;

Its habitat is getting protection by law as an EU Natura 2000 region and as part of the Valsan Valley Nature Reserve.

 
&nbsp;

Andrei Togor could not be happier after he recently discovered Asprete, one of the rarest fish in Europe that was on the brink of extinction Togo, the 31-year-old fish biologist, found 65-million-year-old Asprete's 12 specimens in late October in Valsan river.

Andrei Togor could not be happier after he recently discovered Asprete, one of the rarest fish in Europe that was on the brink of extinction Togo, the 31-year-old fish biologist, found 65-million-year-old Asprete's 12 specimens in late October in Valsan river. Also read | Consuming jellyfish more sustainable alternative to fish: Study "Having an Asprete in front of our eyes was fantastic," he said, as quoted by the BBC. Also read | Amid pandemic, luxury resort in Kerala turns swimming pool into fish farm "It's one of the biggest rewards a field biologist can get." Asprete was first found by a biology student in 1956 and the nocturnal fish faces the threat of extinction. Official figures say that the population of the rare fish is at around 10-15 specimens, which used to be about 200 specimens in the early 2000s. But a small group of scientists and conservationists are campaigning to protect the fish species, also known as Romanichthys valsanicola. The fish can be described as a living fossil, which means it has survived for millions of years without any major changes. But just in the last six decades, human activity has severely caused a decline in its habitat and population. It finds itself on the Berne Convention of European Wildlife and Natural Habitats list of critically endangered species. Its habitat is getting protection by law as an EU Natura 2000 region and as part of the Valsan Valley Nature Reserve.

Scientists, conservationists get together to save 65-million-year-old fish

Voters in Romania decided to re-elect a mayor - who recently passed away after contracting the Wuhan virus. Why? WION's Palki brings you the story.

Gravitas: Romanian Village Elects Dead Mayor

Death is not the greatest loss in life. When a person dies, he leaves behind a legacy that's carried on courtesy the work he did when he was alive.

An apt example of this is a village in Romania -- called Desulu.

The village has re-elected their dead mayor to the office. His name was Aliman Ion.

He was 57-year-old, and passed away two weeks before the votes.

He lost his battle to the coronavirus right before the mayorial elections. But it was too late to change the ballot papers.

So the people of Desulu went ahead to vote for Aliman anyway.

And he won 64 per cent of the voters.

The villagers said Aliman was their real mayor. He supported the villagers, and abided by the law of the land.

It is Aliman's legacy that secured him a third successive victory -- his good deeds outlived his body.

Guess, it's rightly said 'our only legacy is the stories people tell about us after we are gone.'

The only thing that stays is our deeds -- neither our buys nor our medals. And the only place we will remain after we are gone is in people's hearts.

Death is not the greatest loss in life. When a person dies, he leaves behind a legacy that's carried on courtesy the work he did when he was alive. An apt example of this is a village in Romania -- called Desulu.

Death is not the greatest loss in life. When a person dies, he leaves behind a legacy that's carried on courtesy the work he did when he was alive. An apt example of this is a village in Romania -- called Desulu. The village has re-elected their dead mayor to the office. His name was Aliman Ion. He was 57-year-old, and passed away two weeks before the votes. He lost his battle to the coronavirus right before the mayorial elections. But it was too late to change the ballot papers. So the people of Desulu went ahead to vote for Aliman anyway. And he won 64 per cent of the voters. The villagers said Aliman was their real mayor. He supported the villagers, and abided by the law of the land. It is Aliman's legacy that secured him a third successive victory -- his good deeds outlived his body. Guess, it's rightly said 'our only legacy is the stories people tell about us after we are gone.' The only thing that stays is our deeds -- neither our buys nor our medals. And the only place we will remain after we are gone is in people's hearts.

Good deeds outlive the body: The story of a Romanian village

"I want him to pay for everything I've suffered," says a short, frail 24-year-old Romanian who was forced into prostitution by a man who duped her.

The man with whom she fell in love trafficked her in Romania and then to Austria before she managed to escape.

"Once he hit me with a chair and almost killed me", another 31-year-old victim tells AFP, adding that the experience pushed her "to the brink of suicide".

Both women are housed in a shelter for trafficking victims in northeastern Romania and are awaiting the start of proceedings against the men who passed them around.

But their wait may be in vain, given the impunity that many perpetrators seem to enjoy in Romania.

On a national level, the number of alleged traffickers sent to court dropped from 400 in 2018 to 347 last year.

AFP gained access to hundreds of pages of judicial documents and interviewed victims, prosecutors and lawyers in different regions.

The drawbacks were apparent even in the high-profile "Tandarei" case, which spanned the UK and Romania.

In one of the largest child trafficking rings uncovered in Europe, more than 100 people were convicted in the UK over an operation in which dozens of minors were forced to beg and steal.

But in Romania all those charged were acquitted last year after an almost decade-long trial.

The Romanian judges complained about the investigation led by the anti-mafia prosecutors' department (DIICOT), saying a lot of it was "accusations based on hearsay", while leads on alleged bribes paid to local police were not followed up.

- 'Untouchable' suspects -

In its latest report about trafficking in Romania, the US State Department said "widespread complicity and the failure to incriminate officials hampered effective law enforcement".

"Trafficking networks have vast sums of money which often allows them to buy impunity," Silvia Tabusca, director of the Center for Human Rights and Migration, told AFP.

DIICOT prosecutors say that in some cases "officials from banks or town halls as well as police officers have offered protection" to trafficking rings.

Tabusca says there are sometimes also "suspicions of corruption" within the judicial system.

In a rare interview to AFP, 70-year-old Constantin Dragusin -- one of the accused ringleaders of the Tandarei gang -- admitted that "if we could have offered money (to judges) to be acquitted we would have done it, even though we're not guilty".

He says he decided against offering cash as he was convinced the judges in his case would act fairly.

"I am no mobster. I have neither stolen nor recruited any children," he said.

He says he repeatedly asked prosecutors to facilitate a meeting with the parents of the alleged victims, but this was turned down.

The deputy director of the local child protection agency, Neculai Badea, told AFP he also asked for access to the alleged victims in the Tandarei case -- but was likewise turned down.

According to Tabusca, the upshot of the Tandarei acquittals is that "the influence of the suspects within the local community has increased.

"They're are now perceived as untouchable," she says.

- 'Let them break their necks' -

Tabusca says victims' testimony is often changed or retracted during a trial.

"Physical or emotional abuse is normal for many of these children, who find it hard to realise that beyond the walls of their home there is another world where their rights are respected," Mariana Neacsu, a psychologist at the child protection agency in Ialomita county, told AFP.

In 2017, police in Romania and France arrested several dozen suspects believed to have exploited minors who were forced to steal on the Parisian subway.

In France, 20 members of this ring were jailed. But in Romania the case is still before the courts.

According to the prosecution indictment, more than 100 files had been opened by Romanian investigators into thefts committed by children of nine suspects in the ring.

But proceedings only began when French authorities asked for a joint investigation.

Spania and her husband Gheorghe are two of the nine suspects facing trial in the case in the north-eastern city of Iasi.

The indictment includes the transcript of a phone call intercepted by French police in which a friend warns Spania that her daughters, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested in Paris.

"I will not go look for them, let them break their necks", Spania is recorded as saying.

The couple deny the charges and their lawyer Ciprian Mitoseriu told AFP "there is reason to believe that the children stole on their own".

Prosecutors have interviewed 20 minors suspected of being trafficked by their parents, but none of them were prepared to testify.

For Tabusca, another failure of Romanian investigators is that they don't "follow the money and find the real beneficiary".

"The networks quickly regenerate, even if traffickers are convicted", she said.

In another suspected trafficking ring which crossed Romania's borders, the money generated was estimated at more than a million dollars.

The alleged head of that network was recently extradited to the United States, suspected of masterminding the smuggling of thousands of Romanians into the US and subsequently forcing them into begging.

He was previously tried in Romania along with six alleged accomplices and all were acquitted.

&nbsp;

"I want him to pay for everything I've suffered," says a short, frail 24-year-old Romanian who was forced into prostitution by a man who duped her. The man with whom she fell in love trafficked her in Romania and then to Austria before she managed to escape.

"I want him to pay for everything I've suffered," says a short, frail 24-year-old Romanian who was forced into prostitution by a man who duped her. The man with whom she fell in love trafficked her in Romania and then to Austria before she managed to escape. "Once he hit me with a chair and almost killed me", another 31-year-old victim tells AFP, adding that the experience pushed her "to the brink of suicide". Both women are housed in a shelter for trafficking victims in northeastern Romania and are awaiting the start of proceedings against the men who passed them around. But their wait may be in vain, given the impunity that many perpetrators seem to enjoy in Romania. On a national level, the number of alleged traffickers sent to court dropped from 400 in 2018 to 347 last year. AFP gained access to hundreds of pages of judicial documents and interviewed victims, prosecutors and lawyers in different regions. The drawbacks were apparent even in the high-profile "Tandarei" case, which spanned the UK and Romania. In one of the largest child trafficking rings uncovered in Europe, more than 100 people were convicted in the UK over an operation in which dozens of minors were forced to beg and steal. But in Romania all those charged were acquitted last year after an almost decade-long trial. The Romanian judges complained about the investigation led by the anti-mafia prosecutors' department (DIICOT), saying a lot of it was "accusations based on hearsay", while leads on alleged bribes paid to local police were not followed up. - 'Untouchable' suspects - In its latest report about trafficking in Romania, the US State Department said "widespread complicity and the failure to incriminate officials hampered effective law enforcement". "Trafficking networks have vast sums of money which often allows them to buy impunity," Silvia Tabusca, director of the Center for Human Rights and Migration, told AFP. DIICOT prosecutors say that in some cases "officials from banks or town halls as well as police officers have offered protection" to trafficking rings. Tabusca says there are sometimes also "suspicions of corruption" within the judicial system. In a rare interview to AFP, 70-year-old Constantin Dragusin -- one of the accused ringleaders of the Tandarei gang -- admitted that "if we could have offered money (to judges) to be acquitted we would have done it, even though we're not guilty". He says he decided against offering cash as he was convinced the judges in his case would act fairly. "I am no mobster. I have neither stolen nor recruited any children," he said. He says he repeatedly asked prosecutors to facilitate a meeting with the parents of the alleged victims, but this was turned down. The deputy director of the local child protection agency, Neculai Badea, told AFP he also asked for access to the alleged victims in the Tandarei case -- but was likewise turned down. According to Tabusca, the upshot of the Tandarei acquittals is that "the influence of the suspects within the local community has increased. "They're are now perceived as untouchable," she says. - 'Let them break their necks' - Tabusca says victims' testimony is often changed or retracted during a trial. "Physical or emotional abuse is normal for many of these children, who find it hard to realise that beyond the walls of their home there is another world where their rights are respected," Mariana Neacsu, a psychologist at the child protection agency in Ialomita county, told AFP. In 2017, police in Romania and France arrested several dozen suspects believed to have exploited minors who were forced to steal on the Parisian subway. In France, 20 members of this ring were jailed. But in Romania the case is still before the courts. According to the prosecution indictment, more than 100 files had been opened by Romanian investigators into thefts committed by children of nine suspects in the ring. But proceedings only began when French authorities asked for a joint investigation. Spania and her husband Gheorghe are two of the nine suspects facing trial in the case in the north-eastern city of Iasi. The indictment includes the transcript of a phone call intercepted by French police in which a friend warns Spania that her daughters, aged 12 and 14, have been arrested in Paris. "I will not go look for them, let them break their necks", Spania is recorded as saying. The couple deny the charges and their lawyer Ciprian Mitoseriu told AFP "there is reason to believe that the children stole on their own". Prosecutors have interviewed 20 minors suspected of being trafficked by their parents, but none of them were prepared to testify. For Tabusca, another failure of Romanian investigators is that they don't "follow the money and find the real beneficiary". "The networks quickly regenerate, even if traffickers are convicted", she said. In another suspected trafficking ring which crossed Romania's borders, the money generated was estimated at more than a million dollars. The alleged head of that network was recently extradited to the United States, suspected of masterminding the smuggling of thousands of Romanians into the US and subsequently forcing them into begging. He was previously tried in Romania along with six alleged accomplices and all were acquitted.

Impunity robs Romania trafficking victims of justice

Romanian theatres, cinemas and other cultural institutions reopened Tuesday after a six-month shutdown due to the coronavirus pandemic.

Romanian theatres reopen after six-month virus lockdown

Facebook Inc said on Thursday it recently removed a small network of accounts operating from Romania that had been promoting President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign with stories about his support from conservatives, Black Americans, Christians and followers of the QAnon web of baseless conspiracy theories.

Many of the 35 Facebook and 88 Instagram accounts posed as Americans, and some managed Trump fan pages, but they ran afoul of the social network’s rules on what it calls coordinated inauthentic behavior. In addition to misleading people about their location, some account holders ran multiple personas with similar names that posted identical content.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/indonesia-asks-facebook-tiktok-and-disney-to-pay-10-vat-tax-reports-318797">Also read|&nbsp;Indonesia asks Facebook, TikTok and Disney to pay 10% VAT: Tax reports</a>

The network had a small reach, with only 1,600 accounts following the Facebook pages and 7,200 tracking the accounts on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook.

Facebook security policy head Nathaniel Gleicher said the company was unable to tell whether the Romanian group was motivated by money, ideology or government directive.

The nonprofit Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensics Research Lab said some pages only shared content from Trump`s page, while others promoted QAnon, which connects various theories around the idea that Trump is secretly waging a war against powerful Democrats who worship the devil and abuse children. The FBI warned last year that QAnon would likely motivate extremists to commit violence.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/technology/facebook-employees-to-work-from-home-until-july-2021-get-1000-for-home-offices-318749">Also read|&nbsp;Facebook employees to work from home until July 2021; get $1,000 for home offices</a>

Atlantic Council Lab Director Graham Brookie said there were no clear connections to Trump associates or surrogates, and Gleicher said there were no obvious ties to established commercial players such as companies that sell "likes" and followers.

Facebook previously removed much larger and better-connected networks that supported Trump, including one connected to the Epoch Times, which was founded by supporters of the Falun Gong spiritual movement and often criticizes the government of China.

Facebook said on Thursday it had removed another network that reposted content from the Epoch Times and other Falun Gong media in a follow-up action.

While smaller than the network in the December takedown, the new one had amassed more than 2 million followers by posting on topics including the Hong Kong protests, the coronavirus, and U.S. policy toward China, as well as posting animal pictures.

Other July takedowns dismantled a major operation aimed at politics in the Democratic Republic of Congo. More than a million accounts followed pages in the network, which sometimes impersonated political figures.

Facebook said it connected the activity to Congolese political party Force des Patriotes.

Facebook Inc said on Thursday it recently removed a small network of accounts operating from Romania that had been promoting President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign with stories about his support from conservatives, Black Americans, Christians and followers of the QAnon web of baseless conspiracy theories.

Facebook Inc said on Thursday it recently removed a small network of accounts operating from Romania that had been promoting President Donald Trump’s re-election campaign with stories about his support from conservatives, Black Americans, Christians and followers of the QAnon web of baseless conspiracy theories. Many of the 35 Facebook and 88 Instagram accounts posed as Americans, and some managed Trump fan pages, but they ran afoul of the social network’s rules on what it calls coordinated inauthentic behavior. In addition to misleading people about their location, some account holders ran multiple personas with similar names that posted identical content. Also read| Indonesia asks Facebook, TikTok and Disney to pay 10% VAT: Tax reports The network had a small reach, with only 1,600 accounts following the Facebook pages and 7,200 tracking the accounts on Instagram, which is owned by Facebook. Facebook security policy head Nathaniel Gleicher said the company was unable to tell whether the Romanian group was motivated by money, ideology or government directive. The nonprofit Atlantic Council’s Digital Forensics Research Lab said some pages only shared content from Trump`s page, while others promoted QAnon, which connects various theories around the idea that Trump is secretly waging a war against powerful Democrats who worship the devil and abuse children. The FBI warned last year that QAnon would likely motivate extremists to commit violence. Also read| Facebook employees to work from home until July 2021; get $1,000 for home offices Atlantic Council Lab Director Graham Brookie said there were no clear connections to Trump associates or surrogates, and Gleicher said there were no obvious ties to established commercial players such as companies that sell "likes" and followers. Facebook previously removed much larger and better-connected networks that supported Trump, including one connected to the Epoch Times, which was founded by supporters of the Falun Gong spiritual movement and often criticizes the government of China. Facebook said on Thursday it had removed another network that reposted content from the Epoch Times and other Falun Gong media in a follow-up action. While smaller than the network in the December takedown, the new one had amassed more than 2 million followers by posting on topics including the Hong Kong protests, the coronavirus, and U.S. policy toward China, as well as posting animal pictures. Other July takedowns dismantled a major operation aimed at politics in the Democratic Republic of Congo. More than a million accounts followed pages in the network, which sometimes impersonated political figures. Facebook said it connected the activity to Congolese political party Force des Patriotes.

Facebook removes small pro-Trump network based in Romania

Grigore Lup, a Romanian shoemaker from the Transylvanian city of Cluj came up with the idea of long-nosed leather shoes to help keep people apart and respect the rules of social distancing.

Romanian cobbler keeps people apart with size 75 shoes

Romania is sending a team of medics to Italy to help fight the coronavirus pandemic, President &nbsp;Klaus Iohannis said Monday, despite concerns in his own country over its embattled health system.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/who-slams-racist-calls-for-africa-to-be-vaccine-testing-ground-290975" hreflang="en">WHO slams 'racist' calls for Africa to be vaccine testing ground</a>

"We talked about how Romania is showing its solidarity and we decided to send a team of doctors and nurses to Italy", Iohannis announced after a meeting with several cabinet ministers.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-mosque-converted-into-mask-factory-in-virus-hit-iran-290977" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Mosque converted into mask factory in virus-hit Iran</a>

Raed Arafat, head of the country's emergency department, said the team is made up of 11 doctors and six nurses from across the country.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/coronavirus-jordan-becomes-latest-mideast-country-to-deploy-drones-in-virus-response-290973" hreflang="en">Coronavirus: Jordan becomes latest Mideast country to deploy drones in virus response</a>

"They are health workers from intensive care and emergency units who will fly to Milan on a defence ministry plane," Arafat told AFP, adding that they would be sent under the EU's Civil Protection Mechanism for mutual aid in disaster responses.

Since joining the European Union in 2007, Romania has lost thousands of hospital and healthcare workers through emigration, leaving the country's embattled healthcare system even more vulnerable to shortages.

The government has come in for criticism for its reaction to the crisis for being underprepared and not getting sufficient equipment to frontline healthcare staff.&nbsp;

Nonetheless Arafat insisted that the mission to Italy "won't have an impact" on Romania's healthcare system, adding that the team were volunteers.

"The most important thing right now is solidarity. The situation in Italy is more serious now and tomorrow we might be the ones in need of help," Arafat said, adding: "It's only normal we act this way."

Italy's Foreign Minister Luigi di Maio took to Twitter to thank the Romanian government for "accepting our request for help".

Di Maio said the action was an act of "solidarity that fills us with pride".

There are more than 4,000 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Romania so far and 168 people have died.

Iohannis said the state of emergency declared on 16 March to fight COVID-19 will be extended for one more month, starting next week.

"We haven't yet reached the peak of the epidemic. We can't relax now", Iohannis said.

Romania is sending a team of medics to Italy to help fight the coronavirus pandemic, President Klaus Iohannis said Monday, despite concerns in his own country over its embattled health system.

Romania is sending a team of medics to Italy to help fight the coronavirus pandemic, President Klaus Iohannis said Monday, despite concerns in his own country over its embattled health system. Also read: WHO slams 'racist' calls for Africa to be vaccine testing ground "We talked about how Romania is showing its solidarity and we decided to send a team of doctors and nurses to Italy", Iohannis announced after a meeting with several cabinet ministers. Also read: Coronavirus: Mosque converted into mask factory in virus-hit Iran Raed Arafat, head of the country's emergency department, said the team is made up of 11 doctors and six nurses from across the country. Also read: Coronavirus: Jordan becomes latest Mideast country to deploy drones in virus response "They are health workers from intensive care and emergency units who will fly to Milan on a defence ministry plane," Arafat told AFP, adding that they would be sent under the EU's Civil Protection Mechanism for mutual aid in disaster responses. Since joining the European Union in 2007, Romania has lost thousands of hospital and healthcare workers through emigration, leaving the country's embattled healthcare system even more vulnerable to shortages. The government has come in for criticism for its reaction to the crisis for being underprepared and not getting sufficient equipment to frontline healthcare staff. Nonetheless Arafat insisted that the mission to Italy "won't have an impact" on Romania's healthcare system, adding that the team were volunteers. "The most important thing right now is solidarity. The situation in Italy is more serious now and tomorrow we might be the ones in need of help," Arafat said, adding: "It's only normal we act this way." Italy's Foreign Minister Luigi di Maio took to Twitter to thank the Romanian government for "accepting our request for help". Di Maio said the action was an act of "solidarity that fills us with pride". There are more than 4,000 confirmed cases of the new coronavirus in Romania so far and 168 people have died. Iohannis said the state of emergency declared on 16 March to fight COVID-19 will be extended for one more month, starting next week. "We haven't yet reached the peak of the epidemic. We can't relax now", Iohannis said.

Romania to send medics to Italy to combat coronavirus

A Romanian national was arrested by Kolkata Police on Monday for duping dozens for lakhs from Delhi.

“Romanian national Siliviu Florin Spiridon, a resident of Constanta, Romania has been arrested from Greater Kailash by officials of Detective Department of Kolkata Police,” said a senior official of Detective Department of Kolkata Police.

Kolkata Police officials recovered skimming devices, other accessories, magnetic chips, batteries, PIN hole camera chip from his possession.

While sources in Kolkata Police said that the arrested Romanian national confessed to have committed the crime, his associates are still at large and a lookout for them has begun.

Last Monday people residing in Jadavpur, West Bengal woke up to a shock when thousands and lacs were withdrawn from their bank accounts.

Over a span of two days, as many as 59 complaints were registered – 44 from Jadavpur area, 13 from Charu Market area, one from Karaya and one Netaji Nagar area.

According to officers in Lalbazar, Kolkata Police headquarters, 13.2 lakh rupees had been duped by the skimmers and the withdrawals were made between November 28 and December 3 from ATMs in Delhi.

Officers were also contemplating of questioning arrested Romanian nationals lodged in Bengal’s jails who had duped more than 70 people early this year.

Immediately after the scam coming to light, Kolkata Police began an awareness program on social media through its Twitter handle and Facebook page asking people to check for skimmers, suspecting cameras and other devices before transacting at any ATM.

A Romanian national was arrested by Kolkata Police on Monday for duping dozens for lakhs from Delhi. “Romanian national Siliviu Florin Spiridon, a resident of Constanta, Romania has been arrested from Greater Kailash by officials of Detective Department of Kolkata Police,” said a senior official of Detective Department of Kolkata Police.

A Romanian national was arrested by Kolkata Police on Monday for duping dozens for lakhs from Delhi. “Romanian national Siliviu Florin Spiridon, a resident of Constanta, Romania has been arrested from Greater Kailash by officials of Detective Department of Kolkata Police,” said a senior official of Detective Department of Kolkata Police. Kolkata Police officials recovered skimming devices, other accessories, magnetic chips, batteries, PIN hole camera chip from his possession. While sources in Kolkata Police said that the arrested Romanian national confessed to have committed the crime, his associates are still at large and a lookout for them has begun. Last Monday people residing in Jadavpur, West Bengal woke up to a shock when thousands and lacs were withdrawn from their bank accounts. Over a span of two days, as many as 59 complaints were registered – 44 from Jadavpur area, 13 from Charu Market area, one from Karaya and one Netaji Nagar area. According to officers in Lalbazar, Kolkata Police headquarters, 13.2 lakh rupees had been duped by the skimmers and the withdrawals were made between November 28 and December 3 from ATMs in Delhi. Officers were also contemplating of questioning arrested Romanian nationals lodged in Bengal’s jails who had duped more than 70 people early this year. Immediately after the scam coming to light, Kolkata Police began an awareness program on social media through its Twitter handle and Facebook page asking people to check for skimmers, suspecting cameras and other devices before transacting at any ATM.

Romanian national arrested for duping several through ATM skimming in Kolkata

Romania's&nbsp;centrist <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romania-votes-for-president-with-liberal-incumbent-favoured-261170">President Klaus&nbsp;Iohannis</a>&nbsp;won a&nbsp;presidential&nbsp;election runoff on Sunday as expected, crushing his socialist challenger with a&nbsp;pledge&nbsp;to resume judicial reforms slowed down by successive Social Democrat (PSD) governments.

Two separate exit polls showed&nbsp;Iohannis&nbsp;garnered 64 per cent-67per cent&nbsp;of the vote, with former prime minister Viorica Dancila of the left-leaning PSD taking 33-36 per cent.&nbsp;

"The winner today is modern Romania, European Romania, normal Romania,"&nbsp;Iohannis&nbsp;told reporters in his victory speech.

Under a succession of PSD governments, Romania, a European Union member state, has rolled back anti-corruption measures in recent years. Along with ex-communist peers Poland and Hungary, it has been heavily criticized by Brussels for its actions.

However, 60-year-old&nbsp;Iohannis&nbsp;has been credited by Western allies and the European Union with trying to protect the&nbsp;rule&nbsp;of&nbsp;law, in particular by challenging attempts to limit judges' independence.

The president's powers are mostly limited to nominating a prime minister on the basis of who can command a majority, challenging&nbsp;laws in the Constitutional Court, and appointing some chief prosecutors.

Lohannis&nbsp;is expected to install anti-graft and anti-mafia prosecutors who are serious about tackling endemic corruption with the backing of<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romanias-liberals-present-minority-government-258012"> Prime Minister Ludovic Orban</a>, who became head of a liberal minority government by winning a parliamentary vote of confidence three weeks ago.

Teacher Andreea Mihai, 50, said "things should slowly return to normality. Both Orban and&nbsp;Iohannis&nbsp;will work together in the same direction."

Dancila's PSD had increased the burden of proof in corruption cases, reorganized panels of judges and set up a special unit to investigate magistrates for potential abuses, a move widely seen as an instrument of political coercion.

Romania's&nbsp;judicial reforms have been monitored by Brussels since it joined the EU in 2007; in October, Brussels said the reforms were going backward.

Lohannis, a soft-spoken ethnic German and former mayor of Sibiu, became president in 2014.

He helped to secure popular approval in a referendum last May that called for the government to be banned from altering legislation by emergency decrees and advocated a ban on amnesties and pardons for graft-related crimes.

Data from&nbsp;Romania's&nbsp;election commission, which is expected to announce partial official results on Monday, showed a turnout of about 50 per cent, with a record 920,000 voters from the country's diaspora taking part.

Romania's centrist President Klaus Iohannis won a presidential election runoff on Sunday as expected, crushing his socialist challenger with a pledge to resume judicial reforms slowed down by successive Social Democrat (PSD) governments.

Romania's centrist President Klaus Iohannis won a presidential election runoff on Sunday as expected, crushing his socialist challenger with a pledge to resume judicial reforms slowed down by successive Social Democrat (PSD) governments. Two separate exit polls showed Iohannis garnered 64 per cent-67per cent of the vote, with former prime minister Viorica Dancila of the left-leaning PSD taking 33-36 per cent. "The winner today is modern Romania, European Romania, normal Romania," Iohannis told reporters in his victory speech. Under a succession of PSD governments, Romania, a European Union member state, has rolled back anti-corruption measures in recent years. Along with ex-communist peers Poland and Hungary, it has been heavily criticized by Brussels for its actions. However, 60-year-old Iohannis has been credited by Western allies and the European Union with trying to protect the rule of law, in particular by challenging attempts to limit judges' independence. The president's powers are mostly limited to nominating a prime minister on the basis of who can command a majority, challenging laws in the Constitutional Court, and appointing some chief prosecutors. Lohannis is expected to install anti-graft and anti-mafia prosecutors who are serious about tackling endemic corruption with the backing of Prime Minister Ludovic Orban, who became head of a liberal minority government by winning a parliamentary vote of confidence three weeks ago. Teacher Andreea Mihai, 50, said "things should slowly return to normality. Both Orban and Iohannis will work together in the same direction." Dancila's PSD had increased the burden of proof in corruption cases, reorganized panels of judges and set up a special unit to investigate magistrates for potential abuses, a move widely seen as an instrument of political coercion. Romania's judicial reforms have been monitored by Brussels since it joined the EU in 2007; in October, Brussels said the reforms were going backward. Lohannis, a soft-spoken ethnic German and former mayor of Sibiu, became president in 2014. He helped to secure popular approval in a referendum last May that called for the government to be banned from altering legislation by emergency decrees and advocated a ban on amnesties and pardons for graft-related crimes. Data from Romania's election commission, which is expected to announce partial official results on Monday, showed a turnout of about 50 per cent, with a record 920,000 voters from the country's diaspora taking part.

Romania's Klaus Iohannis wins second presidential election runoff

Spain rounded off their <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/denmark-seal-euro-2020-place-with-ireland-draw-263058">Euro 2020</a> qualifying campaign with a 5-0 win at home to Romania on Tuesday amid doubts over Robert Moreno's future as national team coach with media reports swirling that Luis Enrique could return to the role.

Fabian Ruiz put Spain in front after eight minutes while forward Gerard Moreno struck twice and then forced an own goal from Romania's Adrian Rus before the break, with Mikel Oyarzabal hitting the fifth in second-half stoppage time.

Moreno's position was called into question before kick off as several media reports said he would not take charge of the side at next year's European Championship.

Reports suggested Luis Enrique could make a shock return, having left the role in June after his daughter Xana was diagnosed with cancer and tragically passed away in September.

Moreno, Luis Enrique's long-time assistant coach who succeeded him in June, did not give the usual post-match news conference or speak to any media, while players were unable to confirm whether or not he was going to continue in the role.

"In the end we can't do anything, we just have to focus on training and doing as best as we can. We support the coach and his staff," said double scorer Moreno.

Midfielder Saul Niguez added: "We don't know anything, I can't speculate. Robert's work has been reflected on the pitch and we're all happy with him."

Romania coach Cosmin Contra confirmed after the game that he would leave his role when his contract expires in December.

Spain had sealed their place at the finals a month ago and clinched top spot in Group F with a 7-0 win at home to Malta on Friday but they still made a flying start and took the lead when midfielder Fabian Ruiz volleyed home in the eighth minute.

Romania had no chance of qualifying from the group but were already assured of a playoff place via the UEFA Nations League.

They spurned a clear chance to level when George Puscas won the ball back in Spain's area but he was thwarted by keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and his side were punished when Gerard Moreno glanced a header into the net to double the hosts' lead.

Forward Moreno put <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/euro-2020-qualifiers-sergio-ramos-gives-spain-winning-start-205278">Spain</a> further ahead in the 43rd and sparked the fourth goal when his attempted cross was diverted into the net by Romania defender Adrian Rus for an own goal.

His side appeared to relax after the break although Alvaro Morata hit the woodwork and substitute Mikel Oyarzabal added a fifth goal in stoppage time with a superb low strike from outside the area.

Unbeaten Spain ended the campaign with 26 points from 10 games, five points ahead of Sweden who also qualified for next year's tournament. Romania finished fourth with 14.

Spain rounded off their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign with a 5-0 win at home to Romania on Tuesday amid doubts over Robert Moreno's future as national team coach with media reports swirling that Luis Enrique could return to the role.

Spain rounded off their Euro 2020 qualifying campaign with a 5-0 win at home to Romania on Tuesday amid doubts over Robert Moreno's future as national team coach with media reports swirling that Luis Enrique could return to the role. Fabian Ruiz put Spain in front after eight minutes while forward Gerard Moreno struck twice and then forced an own goal from Romania's Adrian Rus before the break, with Mikel Oyarzabal hitting the fifth in second-half stoppage time. Moreno's position was called into question before kick off as several media reports said he would not take charge of the side at next year's European Championship. Reports suggested Luis Enrique could make a shock return, having left the role in June after his daughter Xana was diagnosed with cancer and tragically passed away in September. Moreno, Luis Enrique's long-time assistant coach who succeeded him in June, did not give the usual post-match news conference or speak to any media, while players were unable to confirm whether or not he was going to continue in the role. "In the end we can't do anything, we just have to focus on training and doing as best as we can. We support the coach and his staff," said double scorer Moreno. Midfielder Saul Niguez added: "We don't know anything, I can't speculate. Robert's work has been reflected on the pitch and we're all happy with him." Romania coach Cosmin Contra confirmed after the game that he would leave his role when his contract expires in December. Spain had sealed their place at the finals a month ago and clinched top spot in Group F with a 7-0 win at home to Malta on Friday but they still made a flying start and took the lead when midfielder Fabian Ruiz volleyed home in the eighth minute. Romania had no chance of qualifying from the group but were already assured of a playoff place via the UEFA Nations League. They spurned a clear chance to level when George Puscas won the ball back in Spain's area but he was thwarted by keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga and his side were punished when Gerard Moreno glanced a header into the net to double the hosts' lead. Forward Moreno put Spain further ahead in the 43rd and sparked the fourth goal when his attempted cross was diverted into the net by Romania defender Adrian Rus for an own goal. His side appeared to relax after the break although Alvaro Morata hit the woodwork and substitute Mikel Oyarzabal added a fifth goal in stoppage time with a superb low strike from outside the area. Unbeaten Spain ended the campaign with 26 points from 10 games, five points ahead of Sweden who also qualified for next year's tournament. Romania finished fourth with 14.

Euro 2020 qualifiers: Spain thrash Romania amid doubts about coach Moreno's future

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romanias-liberals-present-minority-government-258012">Romania</a> voted in the first round of a presidential election on Sunday, with pro-European incumbent Klaus Iohannis the favourite to win, potentially adding to a liberal fightback against the region's prevailing nationalism.

Iohannis of the centre-right National Liberal Party (PNL) repeatedly clashed with the beleaguered government of the left-wing Social Democrat (PSD) party, which collapsed last month.

His main rival in the presidential vote, the PSD's Viorica Dancila, served as prime minister for the government, which took power in 2016.

The PSD's government had engaged in a long battle with Brussels,&nbsp;and Iohannis,&nbsp;over allegations it was trying to push through controversial judicial reforms in order to neuter the judiciary and benefit PSD politicians.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"Today Romanians are deciding on the future of their country," Iohannis, 60, told reporters as he cast his ballot at a school in the capital Bucharest.

After casting her own ballot, Dancila told supporters she voted "for a safe and dignified Romania".

He has made rule of law a central plank of his campaign which has mirrored that of Slovakian anti-corruption activist Zuzana Caputova, who won the presidential election in that country in March.

In Hungary too, the nationalist government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban suffered a rare setback last month when centre-left candidate Gergely Karacsony united the opposition to wrest the mayoralty of the capital Budapest from Orban's Fidesz party.

'Pro-European signal'&nbsp;

While nationalism has been less present in Romanian politics than in Hungary or Poland, the PSD had tried to frame its clashes with EU institutions as evidence that the party was standing up for Romania.

However, as the German magazine Osteuropa pointed out in a recent editorial, at May's European elections "while Fidesz and (Poland's ruling) PiS party won on the back of anti-Brussels campaigns, Romanian voters punished the government and sent a pro-European signal".

The heavy losses in the European polls added to a series of travails for Dancila's government which eventually saw it brought down by parliament in a no-confidence vote last month.

Sociologist Vasile Dancu said the PSD would be "seeking a new identity after three years in power".

Earlier this week MPs gave their backing to a government led by the PNL's Ludovic Orban.

Iohannis, a member of the country's ethnic German minority, was first elected in 2014 and is widely expected to win a second five-year term in the run-off vote on November 24.

The former physics teacher and mayor of the city of Sibiu have warned that a PSD win would pose a threat to democracy.

The left-wing party is seen as the successor of the elite which dominated the country before the overthrow of communism in 1989 and is accused of harbouring corruption in its ranks.

Record diaspora turnout

Some four million Romanians have moved abroad in recent years and the diaspora, which predominantly votes for liberal candidates, could play a key role in the election.

Voting opened at many locations abroad on Friday and by Sunday morning more than 300,000 diaspora Romanians had already voted, a record for the first round of a presidential election.

The election could mark the end of an era. For the first time since the return to multi-party democracy the PSD,&nbsp;increasingly reliant on an ageing, rural voter base,&nbsp;can't be sure of making it through to the second round.

Polls indicate Dancila will face a tough fight for second place with 44-year-old Dan Barna standing for the recently formed pro-European Save Romania Union (USR) party.

In total 14 candidates are standing and 18.2 million people are eligible to vote.

Polling stations opened at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and will close at 9:00 pm, with two exit polls expected shortly afterwards.

Romania voted in the first round of a presidential election on Sunday, with pro-European incumbent Klaus Iohannis the favourite to win, potentially adding to a liberal fightback against the region's prevailing nationalism.

Romania voted in the first round of a presidential election on Sunday, with pro-European incumbent Klaus Iohannis the favourite to win, potentially adding to a liberal fightback against the region's prevailing nationalism. Iohannis of the centre-right National Liberal Party (PNL) repeatedly clashed with the beleaguered government of the left-wing Social Democrat (PSD) party, which collapsed last month. His main rival in the presidential vote, the PSD's Viorica Dancila, served as prime minister for the government, which took power in 2016. The PSD's government had engaged in a long battle with Brussels, and Iohannis, over allegations it was trying to push through controversial judicial reforms in order to neuter the judiciary and benefit PSD politicians. "Today Romanians are deciding on the future of their country," Iohannis, 60, told reporters as he cast his ballot at a school in the capital Bucharest. After casting her own ballot, Dancila told supporters she voted "for a safe and dignified Romania". He has made rule of law a central plank of his campaign which has mirrored that of Slovakian anti-corruption activist Zuzana Caputova, who won the presidential election in that country in March. In Hungary too, the nationalist government of Prime Minister Viktor Orban suffered a rare setback last month when centre-left candidate Gergely Karacsony united the opposition to wrest the mayoralty of the capital Budapest from Orban's Fidesz party. 'Pro-European signal' While nationalism has been less present in Romanian politics than in Hungary or Poland, the PSD had tried to frame its clashes with EU institutions as evidence that the party was standing up for Romania. However, as the German magazine Osteuropa pointed out in a recent editorial, at May's European elections "while Fidesz and (Poland's ruling) PiS party won on the back of anti-Brussels campaigns, Romanian voters punished the government and sent a pro-European signal". The heavy losses in the European polls added to a series of travails for Dancila's government which eventually saw it brought down by parliament in a no-confidence vote last month. Sociologist Vasile Dancu said the PSD would be "seeking a new identity after three years in power". Earlier this week MPs gave their backing to a government led by the PNL's Ludovic Orban. Iohannis, a member of the country's ethnic German minority, was first elected in 2014 and is widely expected to win a second five-year term in the run-off vote on November 24. The former physics teacher and mayor of the city of Sibiu have warned that a PSD win would pose a threat to democracy. The left-wing party is seen as the successor of the elite which dominated the country before the overthrow of communism in 1989 and is accused of harbouring corruption in its ranks. Record diaspora turnout Some four million Romanians have moved abroad in recent years and the diaspora, which predominantly votes for liberal candidates, could play a key role in the election. Voting opened at many locations abroad on Friday and by Sunday morning more than 300,000 diaspora Romanians had already voted, a record for the first round of a presidential election. The election could mark the end of an era. For the first time since the return to multi-party democracy the PSD, increasingly reliant on an ageing, rural voter base, can't be sure of making it through to the second round. Polls indicate Dancila will face a tough fight for second place with 44-year-old Dan Barna standing for the recently formed pro-European Save Romania Union (USR) party. In total 14 candidates are standing and 18.2 million people are eligible to vote. Polling stations opened at 7:00 am (0500 GMT) and will close at 9:00 pm, with two exit polls expected shortly afterwards.

Romania votes for president with liberal incumbent favoured

Romania's prime minister-designate on Thursday unveiled a minority government line-up with only a slim chance of winning parliamentary approval, &nbsp;prolonging political uncertainty in the poor, corruption-plagued EU country.

President Klaus Iohannis last week tasked Ludovic Orban, chief of the National Liberal Party (PNL), to form a new government after the previous Social Democratic Party (PSD) &nbsp;administration lost a no-confidence vote.

"We are in a moment in which we need a government to put Romania on the right track", Orban told a press conference flanked by his 17 cabinet members, all but two from his party.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/romania-government-faces-collapse-in-no-confidence-vote-254858">The new cabinet</a> needs the approval of parliament, which is a challenge, given that PNL holds only 96 of the 465 seats, leaving it well short of the 233 majority threshold after talks with several other parties failed.

Orban, 56, a former transport minister,&nbsp;wants a confidence vote to take place next week, while the PSD, which has 201 seats and says it will not back the new government -- is trying to delay it until early November.

If he does survive, his government will likely be a transitional one until late 2020 when the next parliamentary elections are scheduled.

The new ministers are all from PNL except for four-star general Nicolae Ciuca who takes on defence and career diplomat Bogdan Aurescu, nominated as foreign minister.

Among its priorities, the government aims to keep the annual budget deficit under three per cent of GDP, the EU limit, and to reverse "harmful" judicial reforms introduced by the PSD.

Since taking power in late 2016, the PSD government faced massive protests and criticism from Brussels over the reforms seen as helping politicians to escape corruption sentences.

The liberals also intend to nominate a new European Commissioner after social democrat Rovana Plumb was rejected by the European Parliament.

The political crisis in Romania comes one month before the first round of presidential elections, scheduled for November 10.

Incumbent Iohannis, himself a liberal, seeks a second term with the support of the PNL and is a clear favourite.

Romania's prime minister-designate on Thursday unveiled a minority government line-up with only a slim chance of winning parliamentary approval, prolonging political uncertainty in the poor, corruption-plagued EU country.

Romania's prime minister-designate on Thursday unveiled a minority government line-up with only a slim chance of winning parliamentary approval, prolonging political uncertainty in the poor, corruption-plagued EU country. President Klaus Iohannis last week tasked Ludovic Orban, chief of the National Liberal Party (PNL), to form a new government after the previous Social Democratic Party (PSD) administration lost a no-confidence vote. "We are in a moment in which we need a government to put Romania on the right track", Orban told a press conference flanked by his 17 cabinet members, all but two from his party. The new cabinet needs the approval of parliament, which is a challenge, given that PNL holds only 96 of the 465 seats, leaving it well short of the 233 majority threshold after talks with several other parties failed. Orban, 56, a former transport minister, wants a confidence vote to take place next week, while the PSD, which has 201 seats and says it will not back the new government -- is trying to delay it until early November. If he does survive, his government will likely be a transitional one until late 2020 when the next parliamentary elections are scheduled. The new ministers are all from PNL except for four-star general Nicolae Ciuca who takes on defence and career diplomat Bogdan Aurescu, nominated as foreign minister. Among its priorities, the government aims to keep the annual budget deficit under three per cent of GDP, the EU limit, and to reverse "harmful" judicial reforms introduced by the PSD. Since taking power in late 2016, the PSD government faced massive protests and criticism from Brussels over the reforms seen as helping politicians to escape corruption sentences. The liberals also intend to nominate a new European Commissioner after social democrat Rovana Plumb was rejected by the European Parliament. The political crisis in Romania comes one month before the first round of presidential elections, scheduled for November 10. Incumbent Iohannis, himself a liberal, seeks a second term with the support of the PNL and is a clear favourite.

Romania's liberals present minority government

Romania's beleaguered left-wing government risks collapse in a no-confidence vote Thursday, just weeks before a presidential election and amid controversy over the country's nominee for EU commissioner.

Prime Minister Viorica Dancila lost her parliamentary majority in August when the junior coalition partner of her Social Democrats (PSD), Romania's biggest party, withdrew support, citing major disagreements.&nbsp;

That followed hard on the heels of the PSD's shock losses in May's European Parliament elections and the jailing of its once all-powerful leader, Liviu Dragnea, on corruption charges.

The opposition says the no-confidence motion has the support of at least 233 MPs in the 465-seat parliament, just enough to pass it, though some might yet side with the PSD, leaving the outcome in the balance.

"This motion won't pass. I trust the good sense of MPs who value the country's stability," Dancila told PSD lawmakers Tuesday.

The motion demanding the government's sacking had received 237 signatures.

Lobbying lawmakers

Dancila has since instructed her own party lawmakers to abstain from voting to prevent possible "betrayals" and has tried to woo support, promising to pay local communities 300 million euros this Friday to make sure their MPs back her.

Lawmakers likely to change sides have also been offered public service posts and spots on party lists for next year's legislative elections.

The result of the vote is eagerly awaited in Brussels after Dancila's candidate for EU commissioner was rejected. Newly-elected European Commission head, Ursula von der Leyen, has requested a replacement.

Dancila -- whose PSD has been in power since late 2016 but has seen massive protests over controversial judicial reforms -- is also due to run in presidential elections with the first round scheduled for November 10.

Incumbent centre-right President Klaus Iohannis already looks set to be re-elected for a second term, and an overthrow of Dancila's government would weaken her chances even further.

If the motion succeeds, Iohannis will consult parties before appointing a new prime minister to run the poor, corruption-plagued EU member until legislative elections scheduled for the end of next year.

Undermined by internal dissent, the opposition has so far failed to agree on an alternative candidate to Dancila.

One option is former transport minister Ludovic Orban, leader of the Liberals, which Iohannis used to head, but he enjoys far from unanimous backing.

Whatever the outcome of the vote, the government -- current or new -- will have the delicate task of writing the budget for 2020, complicated by an explosion of public spending in recent months as the PSD struggles to stay in power.

The International Monetary Fund has already warned that Romania risks surpassing the three percent public deficit ceiling imposed by the EU, urging Bucharest to give up on a PSD promise of doubling pensions by 2022.

Romania's beleaguered left-wing government risks collapse in a no-confidence vote Thursday, just weeks before a presidential election and amid controversy over the country's nominee for EU commissioner.

Romania's beleaguered left-wing government risks collapse in a no-confidence vote Thursday, just weeks before a presidential election and amid controversy over the country's nominee for EU commissioner. Prime Minister Viorica Dancila lost her parliamentary majority in August when the junior coalition partner of her Social Democrats (PSD), Romania's biggest party, withdrew support, citing major disagreements. That followed hard on the heels of the PSD's shock losses in May's European Parliament elections and the jailing of its once all-powerful leader, Liviu Dragnea, on corruption charges. The opposition says the no-confidence motion has the support of at least 233 MPs in the 465-seat parliament, just enough to pass it, though some might yet side with the PSD, leaving the outcome in the balance. "This motion won't pass. I trust the good sense of MPs who value the country's stability," Dancila told PSD lawmakers Tuesday. The motion demanding the government's sacking had received 237 signatures. Lobbying lawmakers Dancila has since instructed her own party lawmakers to abstain from voting to prevent possible "betrayals" and has tried to woo support, promising to pay local communities 300 million euros this Friday to make sure their MPs back her. Lawmakers likely to change sides have also been offered public service posts and spots on party lists for next year's legislative elections. The result of the vote is eagerly awaited in Brussels after Dancila's candidate for EU commissioner was rejected. Newly-elected European Commission head, Ursula von der Leyen, has requested a replacement. Dancila -- whose PSD has been in power since late 2016 but has seen massive protests over controversial judicial reforms -- is also due to run in presidential elections with the first round scheduled for November 10. Incumbent centre-right President Klaus Iohannis already looks set to be re-elected for a second term, and an overthrow of Dancila's government would weaken her chances even further. If the motion succeeds, Iohannis will consult parties before appointing a new prime minister to run the poor, corruption-plagued EU member until legislative elections scheduled for the end of next year. Undermined by internal dissent, the opposition has so far failed to agree on an alternative candidate to Dancila. One option is former transport minister Ludovic Orban, leader of the Liberals, which Iohannis used to head, but he enjoys far from unanimous backing. Whatever the outcome of the vote, the government -- current or new -- will have the delicate task of writing the budget for 2020, complicated by an explosion of public spending in recent months as the PSD struggles to stay in power. The International Monetary Fund has already warned that Romania risks surpassing the three percent public deficit ceiling imposed by the EU, urging Bucharest to give up on a PSD promise of doubling pensions by 2022.

Romania government faces collapse in no-confidence vote

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said.

Nine of the 16 people on the minibus and the driver of the truck died in the accident, one of the most serious in the country where the poor state of the roads is a concern for motorists.

Of the seven injured, four are in serious condition, secretary of state for the interior Raed Arafat said.

Some 40 firefighters were at the scene of the accident, which forced the closure of the road linking the towns of Slobozia and Urziceni, according to the department for emergency services.

Romania holds the record in the European Union for the highest level of deaths from road accidents, with 96 fatalities per one million inhabitants in 2018 compared to an average of 49 among all 28 EU nations.

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said.

Ten people were killed and seven injured on Saturday when a lorry collided with a minibus in eastern Romania, the country with the highest level of road deaths in the European Union, police said. Nine of the 16 people on the minibus and the driver of the truck died in the accident, one of the most serious in the country where the poor state of the roads is a concern for motorists. Of the seven injured, four are in serious condition, secretary of state for the interior Raed Arafat said. Some 40 firefighters were at the scene of the accident, which forced the closure of the road linking the towns of Slobozia and Urziceni, according to the department for emergency services. Romania holds the record in the European Union for the highest level of deaths from road accidents, with 96 fatalities per one million inhabitants in 2018 compared to an average of 49 among all 28 EU nations.

Ten killed in minibus-lorry collision in Romania

Arsenal could bolster their defence significantly in the final 24 hours before the Premier League transfer window closes on Thursday with the signings of Kieran Tierney and David Luiz, according to reports.

Arsenal could bolster their defence significantly in the final 24 hours before the Premier League transfer window closes on Thursday with the signings of Kieran Tierney and David Luiz, according to reports. Scottish left-back Tierney has been a target all summer for the Gunners, who have had two bids previously rejected by Celtic. However, Tierney, who sat out Celtic's 1-1 draw with CFR Cluj in Romania on Wednesday as he recovers from a hernia operation, is set to travel to London after the clubs finally agreed on the payment structure of a £25 million move according to widespread reports. "I've said the last few days it wouldn't surprise me," Celtic boss Neil Lennon told the BBC on the possibility of losing Tierney. "If he goes, he goes with everyone's best wishes. He's an outstanding talent and a great kid." Arsenal's long search for centre-back cover could also be resolved on Thursday should Luiz move across London from Chelsea. The 32-year-old did not train with the rest of his Chelsea teammates on Wednesday. "If we can on the last day, we will try to sign another centre-back, but one who has the capacity to help us," said Arsenal coach Unai Emery. Arsenal conceded 51 goals in the Premier League last season to miss out on Champions League football for a third consecutive season.

Arsenal agree deal for Tierney, closing in on Luiz

The 15-year-old victim called the police three times to report she was being held against her will by a man who had raped her in Romania. Police took 19 hours to reach the scene, by which time she was already dead.

Protests flare against Romanian Police after murder of a teenage girl

Anti-domestic violence protesters gathered outside of Romania's ministry of internal affairs building on Sunday, standing in memory of two girls murdered and against the inaction of authorities.

Romania protest after two female teenagers killed

The suspect, named as 65-year-old Gheorghe Dinca, has admitted to killing two teenage girls including a 15-year-old whose disappearance this week shook the country.

Romania suspect admits killing 2 girls, charged with murder

Romania's presidency and the Orthodox Church awarded Wimbledon tennis champion <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-defeats-serena-william-to-win-womens-singles-title-235577">Simona Halep</a> their highest distinctions on Monday while hundreds of fans cheered her home after she blitzed US&nbsp;opponent <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/serena-williams-has-lost-intimidation-factor-says-simona-halep-235722">Serena Williams</a> at the weekend.

Halep, 27, became the first Romanian to win a Wimbledon singles title after stunning seven-times champion Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 in the 56-minute match final on Saturday.

"I played my chance. I did the best I could and that's why I managed to win," a beaming <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/simona-halep-beats-serena-williams-to-win-wimbledon-singles-title-235579">Halep </a>told reporters at Bucharest international airport, clutching her trophy and flowers as fans shouted "Bravo, Simona!".

"I've been staying focused on my tactics ... <a href="http://cms.wionews.com/sports/equality-is-my-cause-serena-williams-puts-legend-billie-jean-king-in-her-place-235601">Serena </a>is the best player of all times," Halep said.

It was Halep's second Grand Slam title following her triumph at Roland Garros in Paris last year.

The presidency awarded her the Star of Romania while the church gave her the Patriarchal Cross.

"I always make the sign of the cross and believe in God because nothing can be done without the help of God," Halep said last year after winning in Paris.

Romania's presidency and the Orthodox Church awarded Wimbledon tennis champion Simona Halep their highest distinctions on Monday while hundreds of fans cheered her home after she blitzed US opponent Serena Williams at the weekend.

Romania's presidency and the Orthodox Church awarded Wimbledon tennis champion Simona Halep their highest distinctions on Monday while hundreds of fans cheered her home after she blitzed US opponent Serena Williams at the weekend. Halep, 27, became the first Romanian to win a Wimbledon singles title after stunning seven-times champion Serena Williams 6-2, 6-2 in the 56-minute match final on Saturday. "I played my chance. I did the best I could and that's why I managed to win," a beaming Halep told reporters at Bucharest international airport, clutching her trophy and flowers as fans shouted "Bravo, Simona!". "I've been staying focused on my tactics ... Serena is the best player of all times," Halep said. It was Halep's second Grand Slam title following her triumph at Roland Garros in Paris last year. The presidency awarded her the Star of Romania while the church gave her the Patriarchal Cross. "I always make the sign of the cross and believe in God because nothing can be done without the help of God," Halep said last year after winning in Paris.

Wimbledon champion Simona Halep awarded with Romania's highest distinctions

Besides electing their new<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/european-union-elections-kick-off-as-dutch-polls-open-220854"> European Parliament </a>members on Sunday, Romanians will be taking part in another vote, a referendum which their president says lets voters express their frustration over corruption.

President Klaus Iohannis called the referendum over the government's controversial justice reforms, which he and other critics say will hand impunity to politicians convicted of graft offences in what is one of the EU's most corruption-prone states.

Why a referendum?&nbsp;

Centre-right President Iohannis has been a consistent and trenchant critic of the justice reforms that the left-wing government has tried to push since coming to power in late 2016.

Brussels has also frequently criticised the measures, with the European Commission recently threatening sanctions could follow if the government doesn't change course.

The reforms are widely seen as designed to help the head of the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, who has himself been convicted of corruption offences.

Iohannis has stymied some of the reforms and delayed others from coming into force but says that he lacks the means definitively to prevent what he terms "an attack on the rule of law".

The PSD made a previous attempt to ease anti-corruption legislation in 2017 but had to back down after the plans sparked the biggest demonstrations since the fall of communism.

What will be the questions?&nbsp;

Voters will have two questions on the ballot paper. First,&nbsp;"Do you approve of a ban on any amnesty or pardon for corruption-related offences?"

Secondly,&nbsp;"Do you approve of a ban on emergency decrees to change criminal penalties?"

One of Iohannis' main criticisms of the government has been its attempted use of such emergency decrees to pass controversial measures.

Will it be binding?&nbsp;

Not in and of itself. If there is a "yes" vote on either measure, parliament is supposed to make the proposed law.

But the PSD enjoys a majority in parliament and there is no way of actually forcing MPs to do this.

Moreover, at least 30 per cent of voters -- out of an electorate of 18.3 million -- have to take part in the vote in order for it to be considered valid.

This threshold might not be reached, with several PSD figures calling for a boycott.

The PSD last year called on voters to back a referendum to prevent any future legalisation of gay marriage, but that vote also failed due to insufficient turnout.

Turnout figures should be available on Sunday evening, but the result will only be published on Monday.

What other effects could it have?&nbsp;

According to legal expert Laura Stefan from the think tank Expert Forum, a "yes" vote with a strong turnout would prove that the fight against corruption is still a top priority for Romanians and would strengthen Iohannis's position.

It would also be a slap in the face for the PSD -- which has portrayed the fight against corruption as a "witch-hunt" -- as well as for Dragnea, the party's eminence grise.

But the vote isn't without risks for Iohannis, who is standing for re-election as president in the autumn.

A low turnout could weaken him going into that poll.

Dragnea himself is set to announce after the close of polls on Sunday whether he himself will run against Iohannis in the presidential elections.

A verdict is expected on Monday in Dragnea's appeal against a conviction he received last year over a fake jobs scandal.

A previous conviction for electoral fraud prevented Dragnea from becoming prime minister after the PSD's 2016 election victory but would not stop him becoming president.

Besides electing their new European Parliament members on Sunday, Romanians will be taking part in another vote, a referendum which their president says lets voters express their frustration over corruption.

Besides electing their new European Parliament members on Sunday, Romanians will be taking part in another vote, a referendum which their president says lets voters express their frustration over corruption. President Klaus Iohannis called the referendum over the government's controversial justice reforms, which he and other critics say will hand impunity to politicians convicted of graft offences in what is one of the EU's most corruption-prone states. Why a referendum? Centre-right President Iohannis has been a consistent and trenchant critic of the justice reforms that the left-wing government has tried to push since coming to power in late 2016. Brussels has also frequently criticised the measures, with the European Commission recently threatening sanctions could follow if the government doesn't change course. The reforms are widely seen as designed to help the head of the ruling Social Democratic Party (PSD), Liviu Dragnea, who has himself been convicted of corruption offences. Iohannis has stymied some of the reforms and delayed others from coming into force but says that he lacks the means definitively to prevent what he terms "an attack on the rule of law". The PSD made a previous attempt to ease anti-corruption legislation in 2017 but had to back down after the plans sparked the biggest demonstrations since the fall of communism. What will be the questions? Voters will have two questions on the ballot paper. First, "Do you approve of a ban on any amnesty or pardon for corruption-related offences?" Secondly, "Do you approve of a ban on emergency decrees to change criminal penalties?" One of Iohannis' main criticisms of the government has been its attempted use of such emergency decrees to pass controversial measures. Will it be binding? Not in and of itself. If there is a "yes" vote on either measure, parliament is supposed to make the proposed law. But the PSD enjoys a majority in parliament and there is no way of actually forcing MPs to do this. Moreover, at least 30 per cent of voters -- out of an electorate of 18.3 million -- have to take part in the vote in order for it to be considered valid. This threshold might not be reached, with several PSD figures calling for a boycott. The PSD last year called on voters to back a referendum to prevent any future legalisation of gay marriage, but that vote also failed due to insufficient turnout. Turnout figures should be available on Sunday evening, but the result will only be published on Monday. What other effects could it have? According to legal expert Laura Stefan from the think tank Expert Forum, a "yes" vote with a strong turnout would prove that the fight against corruption is still a top priority for Romanians and would strengthen Iohannis's position. It would also be a slap in the face for the PSD -- which has portrayed the fight against corruption as a "witch-hunt" -- as well as for Dragnea, the party's eminence grise. But the vote isn't without risks for Iohannis, who is standing for re-election as president in the autumn. A low turnout could weaken him going into that poll. Dragnea himself is set to announce after the close of polls on Sunday whether he himself will run against Iohannis in the presidential elections. A verdict is expected on Monday in Dragnea's appeal against a conviction he received last year over a fake jobs scandal. A previous conviction for electoral fraud prevented Dragnea from becoming prime minister after the PSD's 2016 election victory but would not stop him becoming president.

Romania's anti-corruption referendum explained

A family of Romanian witches are enhancing their powers thanks to the help of the internet. Matriarch Mihaela Minca and her daughters sit and chant as they perform a love spell via a video call to a paying client in India, over 5,000 kilometers (3,000 miles) away.

Romania’s witches sell love spells over the internet

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