A hard-right critic of NATO who has praised Russia is set to face a center-right opposition leader in a presidential election runoff in Romania that could undermine its pro-Western stance after a shock outcome in the first-round vote.

Calin Georgescu, a prominent critic of NATO and Romania's support for Ukraine, has taken the lead in the presidential election.

A pro-Russia far-right candidate took a surprise lead Monday in Romania's presidential election, knocking the EU-leaning premier out of the race that will be decided in a December run off.

Work and Pensions Secretary Liz Kendall has said Nato countries are involved in a “hidden cyber war” with Russia. Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster Pat McFadden will warn in a major speech next week that Russia is prepared to launch a series of cyber attacks on Britain and other Nato members as it seeks to weaken support for Ukraine.

Britain and its allies will not be intimidated by Russian cyberthreats into stopping supporting Ukraine, British cabinet office minister Pat McFadden said on Monday, urging NATO to work closer together to stay ahead in "the new AI arms race".