Lithuanian ruling coalition stable despite scandals, says acting DSVL leader

The Lithuanian ruling coalition remains strong despite recent controversies, including raids on the offices and homes of Nemuno Aušra leaders, according to Virginijus Sinkevičius, acting head of the Democratic Union “For Lithuania” (DSVL).

Speaking to the state news agency ELTA, Sinkevičius dismissed speculation that the coalition—comprising the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), Nemuno Aušra, and DSVL—would collapse before the 2028 parliamentary elections. He argued that the current arrangement benefits all parties by ensuring political stability.

“The coalition is now in a comfortable status where there is a lot of noise, but the situation is convenient for everyone,” Sinkevičius said. “It guarantees stability in terms of positions.”

He added that the LSDP appears willing to endure criticism as long as Nemuno Aušra remains in power, suggesting the party is “prepared to absorb as many blows as Nemuno Aušra is willing to deliver until the end of this coalition.”

However, Sinkevičius acknowledged that tensions could escalate closer to the elections, as Nemuno Aušra may seek to distance itself from unfulfilled promises by blaming the LSDP. “I think that big explosion will happen at some point, but probably closer to the Seimas elections,” he said.

Addressing speculation that DSVL could replace Nemuno Aušra in the coalition, Sinkevičius noted strong internal opposition within his party to joining the government. “There are many people in our ranks who are against entering the coalition,” he said, citing concerns over its negative reputation and leadership struggles.

On security matters, Sinkevičius commented on the recent discovery of a crashed drone carrying explosives in Utena district, calling it a “weakness” in Lithuania’s surveillance capabilities. He urged prioritising defence investments to track such threats but cautioned against hastily dismissing the defence minister.

“Our weak point is that even if we monitor the border, we don’t know where the drone goes next,” he said. “Priority investments in defence should address this.”