Romanians began voting on Sunday in the first round of the presidential election, with high living costs and Romania's support for Ukraine dominating the race.

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu, 56, leader of the Social Democratic Party (PSD), is expected to make it to the December 8 run-off, likely facing George Simion, 38, of the hard-right Alliance for Uniting Romanians (AUR).

As of 10:45 GMT, 20.7% of registered voters had cast their ballots, with significant turnout abroad, where Simion enjoys strong support. Ciolacu, who has focused on his experience leading Romania during the Ukraine war, is favored to win in the second round, but Simion's outsider appeal could attract center-right voters, including those backing Elena Lasconi, the third-ranked candidate.

Simion, who opposes military aid to Ukraine, presents himself as a defender of Romania’s sovereignty, contrasting with Romania's reliance on EU and NATO support. Ciolacu's government has raised wages and pensions, but Romania still faces high inflation and poverty.

The election outcome remains uncertain due to a fragmented political field. Candidates have focused on conservative values, including national identity and family. Romania’s next president will play a key role in foreign and defense policy. (ILKHA)