**Romania’s caretaker Prime Minister Ilie Bolojan remains in office as of early September 2026 following the May 2026 no-confidence vote that ended his coalition government.** The Social Democrats (PSD) withdrew support in April over austerity measures aimed at cutting the EU’s largest budget deficit, then joined the far-right AUR to pass the motion 281-4. Bolojan has stayed on as interim head while President Nicușor Dan seeks a replacement amid stalled talks. Recent developments center on renewed pressure as Parliament resumes after summer recess. Bolojan has stressed the urgent need for a full-power government to pass a budget revision, issue ordinances, and sustain deficit reduction from roughly 6% toward 5%, warning that further delay risks derailing fiscal progress and EU funds tied to the PNRR. On September 1, he publicly called for a stable cabinet with predictable policies, while the president apologized for the extended crisis without naming a new nominee. PSD leaders have signaled readiness for a functional or minority government (possibly under their own figures or technocrats), but PNL has rejected coalitions with PSD and threatened to expel any dissidents who support one. Key upcoming catalysts include parliamentary activity in September, ongoing consultations among pro-European parties (PNL, USR, UDMR), and the constitutional timeline for nominations. Trader views on Bolojan’s departure timing reflect the pace of these negotiations, the priority of fiscal and EU-related deadlines, and risks of prolonged deadlock or snap-election triggers under Romania’s rules.