Lithuanian president compares ‘Lithuania for Lithuanians’ slogan to dark chapters of Germany’s past

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has condemned the nationalist slogan “Lithuania for Lithuanians,” drawing parallels to “unfortunate events” in 20th-century Germany, public broadcaster LRT reports.

The president’s remarks follow an incident on March 11 at Vilnius University’s Institute of International Relations and Political Science, where lecturer Konstantinas Andrijauskas allegedly tore down a poster bearing the slogan. Andrijauskas now faces potential charges for disturbing public order.

In an interview with LRT’s Dienos tema program, Nausėda stated that such slogans evoke historical dangers, emphasising that love for one’s country should not come at the expense of elevating one nation above others. “There are far better ways to love your state,” he said.

The president also addressed rising tensions in the Middle East, warning that disputes among NATO allies—particularly over U.S. calls for support against Iran—risk undermining the alliance’s unity ahead of its July summit in Ankara. He stressed the need for solidarity on defence spending, aid to Ukraine, and internal security, while acknowledging uncalculated risks in the Strait of Hormuz, where disruptions threaten global oil supplies and economic stability.

On domestic fuel price surges, Nausėda cautioned against hasty measures like tax cuts or price caps, instead endorsing targeted aid for vulnerable businesses and households if the crisis persists. “Drastic steps may not be needed if the situation resolves quickly,” he noted, “but targeted support has proven effective in the past.”