Romania Appoints Radu Miruță as New Defense Minister

Romania’s government has confirmed a key change at the top of its defense establishment, with Radu Miruță formally taking office as minister of national defense following a swearing-in ceremony at the Cotroceni Palace on Tuesday, December 23.

Miruță, a senior figure within the Save Romania Union (USR), moves to the defense portfolio after previously serving as minister of economy. His appointment comes after several weeks of uncertainty at the Ministry of Defense, where he had already been acting in an interim capacity following the resignation of his party colleague Ionuț Moșteanu in November.

Moșteanu stepped down amid a public controversy related to inaccuracies in his academic credentials, a case that quickly became a political liability for the governing coalition. His departure left the defense ministry without permanent leadership at a time when Romania remains deeply engaged in modernization efforts and regional security initiatives linked to NATO and the European Union.

USR leaders argue that Miruță’s transition to defense ensures continuity rather than disruption. According to the party, he has already demonstrated “rigor in governmental activity” and played a role in advancing Romania’s participation in the EU-backed SAFE program, which focuses on strengthening and equipping national armed forces. Alongside his new role, Miruță will also serve as a deputy prime minister in the coalition government.

In a statement published after the ceremony, Miruță said his priority would be to maintain momentum across both portfolios. He emphasized continuity in economic policy while underlining his commitment to defense, stating that he would work to ensure the Romanian Armed Forces receive “the respect they deserve” and that Romania remains firmly on its current strategic course.

Confidence in the appointment was also expressed by President Nicușor Dan, who publicly stated that he trusts Miruță’s ability to handle the defense brief, despite having previously distanced himself from the USR party he once founded.

Miruță’s appointment is part of a broader reshuffle within the Romanian cabinet. One day earlier, the minister of education announced his resignation, citing a lack of long-term political ambitions and describing his tenure as a temporary contribution during a period of crisis. The National Liberal Party (PNL), which supported that appointment, is expected to nominate a successor in the coming days.

For Romania’s defense sector, Miruță’s confirmation provides short-term stability and a familiar figure at the helm, as Bucharest continues to balance domestic reforms with growing regional security responsibilities on NATO’s eastern flank.