Lithuanian coalition talks begin with unprecedented Brussels coordination

Talks on forming Lithuania’s next ruling coalition have begun with an unusual first step—negotiations led from Brussels by party leaders serving in the European Parliament, LRT reports.

A preliminary meeting on Monday between the Social Democrats, the Democrats “For Lithuania” party, and the Farmers and Greens Union marked the start of formal coalition discussions, set to begin in earnest on Tuesday. The parties have yet to specify how extensive government changes may be or which ministers could lose their positions.

Social Democrat leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius expressed hope that current EU officials Virginijus Sinkevičius and Aurelijus Veryga—both former ministers—would return to work in Lithuania’s government. “It would, of course, be easier if they were here in Vilnius with us, not just offering support but actively participating in the team,” Sinkevičius said, adding that he had discussed potential roles with both men “half-jokingly, half-seriously.”

Sinkevičius also emphasised the need for speed, citing the approaching end of the parliamentary session and the urgency to begin work. Decisions on the coalition’s structure are expected by early next week.

Virginijus Sinkevičius, currently serving as EU Environment Commissioner, has not confirmed his return but suggested any move would depend on a broader government reshuffle. “My ‘yes’ came with a clear condition: we expect a wider government overhaul that would allow for an updated programme—not that everything before was bad, but a renewed plan of action,” he said.

Aurelijus Veryga, leader of the Farmers and Greens, stressed that any changes should prioritise stability, particularly with Lithuania’s upcoming EU Council presidency. “Theoretically, everything is negotiable, but we should consider continuity in delegated areas and ministries,” he said.

Notably absent from the Brussels meeting was Valdemar Tomaševski, leader of the Electoral Action of Poles in Lithuania, despite his party holding ministerial posts in the current government. Mindaugas Lingė, deputy chair of the conservative Homeland Union–Lithuanian Christian Democrats (TS-LKD) faction, criticised the exclusion as unusual. “This is a coalition of comfort for the leaders, who have chosen to direct things from Brussels. That’s an unprecedented move,” Lingė said.

The new coalition will hold 75 seats in the 141-member Seimas, a narrower majority that could complicate decision-making. However, opposition leaders from the conservatives and liberals have signalled willingness to support critical national security and defence measures. “On essential issues related to security and defence, the liberals will continue to back initiatives. And that support will be needed without question,” said Liberal Movement leader Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen.