Romania Names Fourth PM Pick as Black Sea Deaths and Bear Cull Law Advance
What it means
President Nicușor Dan named diplomat Luca Niculescu prime minister-designate, the fourth attempt to end a five-month stalemate. A drone attack sank a grain ship off Romania's Black Sea coast, killing two, and Dan signed a law allowing 859 brown bears to be shot in 2026.
Why it matters
A five-month government vacuum leaves a fourth nominee, Luca Niculescu, needing parliamentary approval while two deaths in Romania's Black Sea waters go unanswered by its coastguard. Dan's 859-bear quota proceeds though officials say it cannot be met.
How it affects you
Grain shipped through Romania's Black Sea waters is disrupted after a drone sank a vessel and killed two crew, which can affect food prices. The new bear law permits shooting 859 brown bears in 2026 near where people live and travel.
