Lithuania’s social democrats vote to leave ruling coalition, seek new alliance with Democrats

The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) has voted overwhelmingly to abandon its ruling coalition with the Nemuno aušra party and begin negotiations to form a new government with the Democratic Vardan Lietuvos party, LRT reports.

Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius presented the proposal to the LSDP council on Thursday, arguing that the move was “the right path for both the party and the state.” The decision was backed by 116 of 120 council members, with one opposed and three abstaining.

Sinkevičius cited a lack of progress toward national stability as the key reason for the shift, stating that attempts at constructive cooperation with Nemuno aušra had failed. “We see no movement toward stability, and the party leader may even be becoming more radical,” he said. “What the public needs today is the opposite: stability, clear direction, and decision-making—not political noise.”

The LSDP will retain its coalition with the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union and the Christian Families Alliance. Formal negotiations with the Democrats are expected to begin next week, with Sinkevičius expressing hope for results “by midweek.”

While the party leader did not rule out taking the prime minister’s post himself, he stressed that Thursday’s meeting did not address specific cabinet changes. He praised current Prime Minister Ingrida Ruginienė’s work but acknowledged that reshuffling would be unavoidable. “She is a team member, and I respect her,” Sinkevičius said. “For now, I thank her for her work, which continues in today’s context.”

The final straw for the coalition, according to Sinkevičius, was Nemuno aušra’s opposition to key legislation, including this spring’s vote on the Kapčiamiesčio military training ground law. President Gitanas Nausėda has already been informed of the LSDP’s decision.

Analysts suggest the move may also aim to improve the party’s image ahead of next year’s municipal elections.