Opposition leader claims social democrats use his party to pressure coalition partner

Opposition Democratic Union “For Lithuania” leader Saulius Skvernelis has accused the ruling Social Democrats of repeatedly using his party as leverage to pressure their coalition partner Remigijus Žemaitaitis, leader of the “Nemuno Aušra” party, BNS reports.

Speaking to journalists in parliament on Thursday, Skvernelis stated that his party is “often used as a tool to unsettle the respected Remigijus Žemaitaitis.” He claimed this tactic has been employed “perhaps six times over two years,” whenever Žemaitaitis “shows any resistance,” followed by speculation about a new coalition. “Then they eat pastries, drink coffee…,” he added.

Skvernelis did not deny ongoing discussions between the Social Democrats and his party regarding a potential return to the governing majority. The Democrats were part of the ruling coalition from winter 2024 until summer 2025, when then-Prime Minister Gintautas Paluckas resigned amid legal scrutiny of his business ties. The Social Democrats subsequently replaced the Democrats with the Lithuanian Farmers, Greens, and Christian Families Union.

Skvernelis suggested his reduced political activity after the legal investigation—which included searches of his home and office—may have opened the door for renewed coalition talks. “The open secret was that when the coalition collapsed, it was said I was the biggest obstacle for the Social Democrats, the biggest trigger,” he said. “Now that this is gone, there is apparently reason to talk.”

However, he noted mixed signals from the Social Democrats, with interim leader statements conflicting with those of the party’s parliamentary group chair. “As long as there’s no divorce, talking about new marriages makes no sense,” he added.

Tensions within the coalition escalated after “Nemuno Aušra” members, including Žemaitaitis, opposed the establishment of a military training ground in Lazdijai district. Social Democrat leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius called the move “unacceptable,” while President Gitanas Nausėda urged the party to seek alternative partners.

The current ruling majority consists of the Social Democrats, “Nemuno Aušra,” and the Farmers-Greens-Christian Families Union, holding 81 seats in parliament.