The article discusses the expansion of the U.S. military presence in Eastern Europe, particularly in Romania and Poland, with the establishment of American naval facilities. These bases are part of an $800 million ballistic missile defense shield for NATO countries in Europe, using the Aegis defense system. While U.S. and NATO officials assert that the system is aimed at protecting against threats from rogue states like Iran and is not directed against Russia, Moscow views the bases as a provocation. The presence of U.S. military in these countries is seen as a reassurance against Russian aggression, as evidenced by the annexation of Crimea and support for separatists in Ukraine. The article also touches on the economic benefits for local communities near the bases and the mixed feelings of residents, including fears of becoming targets for Russian retaliation.

Romania, known for its poverty and corruption, is showing signs of a new beginning with the election of Klaus Iohannis as president. Iohannis, who campaigned on anti-corruption, will collaborate with Laura Codruța Kövesi, head of Romania's National Anti-Corruption Directorate. Kövesi has a strong track record, having sent 890 defendants to trial, including high-profile figures and politicians. The directorate has also confiscated nearly $200 million in connection with corruption cases. The article highlights the challenges of overcoming corruption ingrained since the fall of communism and the public's demand for accountability, as seen in the recent presidential elections where expat voting issues led to protests and a surge of support for Iohannis. Monica Macovei, an EU parliament member and anti-corruption activist, emphasizes the need for an independent judiciary. Iohannis, of German descent and from an ethnic minority, is credited with transforming his hometown of Sibiu and is expected to tackle corruption and misuse of public funds.

The article reflects on the legacy of the Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, 25 years after his execution on Christmas Day in 1989. It discusses the oppressive and miserable conditions Romanians endured under his rule, including political oppression and food shortages. Retired Gen. Andrei Kemenici, who was in charge of the military base where the Ceausescus were held before their execution, shares his experiences and opinions on the matter. The article also covers the hasty trial and execution of the Ceausescus, with insights from Ovidiu Carstina, the director of a museum on the base. The piece explores the mixed feelings of Romanians regarding the summary nature of the trial and the subsequent execution, questioning the justice of the process despite the dictatorship's atrocities.