Romanian Liberal Party Rejects PSD Coalition Amid Government Crisis

The National Liberal Party (PNL) has reiterated its refusal to form a governing coalition with the Social Democratic Party (PSD), citing a total loss of trust after recent political confrontations. PNL leaders, including Maramureș president Ionel Bogdan and MEP Gheorghe Falcă, described PSD as an aggressor and argued that a partnership would be untenable.

PSD leaders have expressed willingness to sign a minor‑party agreement, proposing a minority or “armistice” government to unblock the implementation of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan (PNRR). Vice‑president Gabriel Zetea warned that continued deadlock could cause Romania to lose billions of euros in EU funds. Negotiations involving PSD, PNL, USR and UDMR are ongoing, with discussions about alternative formats such as a technocratic cabinet or a split of responsibilities between separate minority governments.

The political stalemate has persisted for two months since the dismissal of Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan’s cabinet, leaving the country under a caretaker administration. Parties remain divided over the inclusion of USR, the role of the AUR party, and the conditions for any future coalition, while the Parliament is expected to convene an extraordinary session to adopt key legislation required for PNRR disbursements.