A contentious argument unfolded between former Prime Minister Victor Ponta and interim Economy Minister Radu Miruță following accusations regarding the handling of Damen Shipyards Mangalia. The dispute arose after Miruță, a USR politician, criticized the Social Democratic Party’s (PSD) past management of the shipyard. Rheinmetall Real Estate România SRL recently won the auction for Damen Shipyards Mangalia, prompting the heated exchange. Ponta and Miruță traded accusations, with Ponta claiming Miruță was under the influence of drugs and Miruță alleging Ponta was labelled “Pinocchio” by a former president. The sale of the Mangalia naval shipyard has clearly become a point of significant political friction within Romania. The incident occurred during a public discussion, amplifying the visibility of the disagreement.