Nebraska Panhandle News

U.S. Senators Pete Ricketts, Ben Cardin, Jim Risch, and Jeanne Shaheen have expressed their concerns regarding Russian interference in Romania's presidential elections. The senators are senior members of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations and issued a joint statement highlighting the challenges faced by Romania.

The statement emphasized that "Vladimir Putin’s assault on Romania’s elections is yet another example of the hybrid war he is waging on our European allies and partners." It further underscored support for Romania as it confronts these challenges: "As a strong NATO ally, we support Romania as it fights for the integrity of its elections."

Particular attention was drawn to the use of social media platforms in this context. The senators condemned Putin's alleged use of "Chinese Communist Party (CCP)-controlled TikTok to undermine Romania’s democratic process." They urged global awareness about the threats posed by such manipulation: "The world must wake up to the serious threat to democracy posed by Russian manipulation of TikTok to undermine our free societies."

Acknowledging Romania's efforts in tackling these issues, they stated, "The Romanian government has uncovered this assault on their democracy," and commended its transparency in sharing intelligence with international partners. The U.S., according to the senators, stands firmly behind Romania's goal to conduct fair elections.

Senators Ricketts and Shaheen hold significant roles within the Senate Foreign Relations Subcommittee on Europe and Regional Security Cooperation. Meanwhile, Senators Cardin and Risch serve as leaders within the broader Senate Foreign Relations Committee.