Lithuania’s ruling Social Democrats to decide future of coalition with Nemuno Aušra

The governing board of Lithuania’s Social Democratic Party (LSDP) will meet on Saturday to determine the future of its coalition with the nationalist Nemuno Aušra party, LRT reports.

Party leader and Jonava district mayor Mindaugas Sinkevičius will present three potential scenarios to the board, though he has not disclosed details. Earlier discussions within the party had outlined three options: continuing the current coalition, replacing Nemuno Aušra with the Democratic Party, or governing as a minority.

Tensions within the coalition escalated after Nemuno Aušra lawmakers opposed the establishment of a military training ground in Kapčiamiestis. Some Social Democrats have also criticised the nationalist party’s leader for publicly attacking their ministers, creating controversy, and facing a first-instance court conviction for antisemitic remarks.

The board will also address political priorities and preparations for next year’s municipal elections. Following the 2024 parliamentary elections, the Social Democrats initially formed a majority with Nemuno Aušra and the Democrats but later restructured the coalition, bringing in the Lithuanian Farmers, Greens, and Christian Families Union faction instead. The current coalition holds 80 seats in the 141-member parliament.