Romanian Defence Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Ionut Mosteanu announced his resignation on Friday after media reports raised doubts about the authenticity of his university degree. Mosteanu, a member of the Save Romania Union (USR) party, had taken office in June 2025.
In his statement, Mosteanu said that Romania and Europe are currently facing increasing pressure from Russia, and he did not want controversies surrounding his academic background to distract the leadership during a critical period.
He stated:
“Romania and Europe are under Russian assault. Our national security must be defended at all costs. I do not want discussions about my training and the mistakes I made many years ago to distract those who are now leading the country from the difficult mission.”
Mosteanu added that he decided to step down after holding discussions with Romanian President Nicusor Dan, Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan, and senior USR leadership.
