Foreign minister Budrys says he has not discussed his future with Sinkevičius, remains ready to continue

Lithuania’s Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys has stated he has not discussed his future in the role with Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius, despite public speculation about his potential resignation, LRT reports.

“A political process is underway, and we understand it could take different turns. I have not spoken with Sinkevičius about this. For now, I am working and am ready to continue,” Budrys told journalists. He confirmed meeting with Sinkevičius last week but did not disclose the details of their discussion.

Public speculation has included the possibility of Budrys being replaced by Presidential Chief Adviser Deividas Matulionis. Budrys acknowledged awareness of such scenarios but declined to evaluate them, calling the political noise “a necessary part of the process.”

Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė expressed confidence in Budrys, stating he is performing well. However, Sinkevičius said he could not guarantee Budrys would remain in office after the ruling coalition’s formation, suggesting Virginijus Sinkevičius, acting leader of the Democratic Union “For Lithuania,” could be a potential successor. Sinkevičius added that no decision on Budrys has been made yet.

Unconfirmed reports also suggest social democrats may consider replacing Finance Minister Kristupas Vaitiekūnas. Vaitiekūnas said he maintains regular contact with Sinkevičius and trusts him as party leader. “We communicate consistently. I inform him about developments, perhaps not as thoroughly as the prime minister, but we stay in touch,” he said. Vaitiekūnas avoided discussing his own political future, stating, “Right now, Ruginienė is working, and we trust each other. We’ll see how things unfold.”

Interior Minister Vladislavas Kondratovičius, whose potential replacement by Vilnius District Mayor Robertas Duchnevičius has been discussed, said he remains focused on his current duties. “We have matters to consider, tasks to focus on, and work to do. We’ll see how things develop,” he said.

Culture Minister Vaida Aleknavičienė, also mentioned in speculation, called the discussions a normal part of the political process. “We haven’t spoken about it; we’re all just doing our jobs,” she said.