Lithuanian president dismisses criticism of foreign minister as “political noise”

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has rejected growing criticism of Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, calling it vague and politically motivated, state news agency BNS reports.

“If someone has complaints, they should present them clearly rather than muttering under their breath—then we can assess whether Mr. Budrys is performing his duties properly,” Nausėda told reporters Friday during a visit to the Padvarionys border checkpoint.

The president’s remarks follow a closed-door meeting Wednesday where the opposition Social Democratic Party (LSDP) summoned Budrys to address concerns over his performance. Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius has accused the minister of continuing policies set by the previous government.

Nausėda, however, defended Budrys, stating the foreign minister is successfully executing both the government’s agenda and the president’s directives. “He is pursuing a consistent policy—supporting Ukraine, pushing for sanctions against Russia, and cooperating with transatlantic partners,” the president said.

Social Democrats have privately acknowledged dissatisfaction with Budrys’ work but have not publicly detailed specific grievances.