Lithuanian speaker believes public trusts Sinkevičius more than Ruginienė

Lithuanian parliament speaker Juozas Olekas has stated that the public trusts designated prime minister and Social Democratic Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius more than outgoing prime minister Ingrida Ruginienė.

“I believe Mindaugas enjoys greater public trust and recognition because he has political experience and has strongly recommended himself in his previous and current roles, including as mayor,” Olekas told Žinių Radijas on Wednesday when asked how the new government would improve on the previous one.

Olekas described Sinkevičius as politically strong, with leadership honed by experience, and said the change in prime minister would be for the better. He also confirmed familiarity with the new government’s initial programme, stating it meets public expectations.

When asked about potential skeletons in the Social Democratic leader’s closet, Olekas assured that Sinkevičius had been thoroughly vetted, leaving little to uncover.

Sinkevičius was appointed prime minister by President Gitanas Nausėda on Tuesday, with parliamentary approval following the same day. His appointment came after Ruginienė stepped down due to a shift in the ruling coalition.

On Wednesday, Sinkevičius is set to meet with acting foreign minister Kęstutis Budrys. While Sinkevičius has yet to decide on Budrys’ future role, he plans to announce the new cabinet’s composition soon.

Olekas stated that any foreign minister must represent the government’s programme. “I think Kęstutis Budrys could continue, but there are others who could do the job—it doesn’t have to be him alone,” he said.

Olekas also noted that Lithuania’s foreign policy requires continuity, and Budrys has done good work, though some differences in opinion between the prime minister and minister may have existed. Ultimately, the minister must align with the government’s common programme.

Regarding potential candidates for foreign minister, Olekas declined to name any, stating that responsibility lies with the incoming prime minister and president. “I shouldn’t be naming names today—that’s the competence of the prime minister and the president,” he said.

Olekas added that Lithuania’s foreign policy chief should seek to improve relations with Beijing while maximising benefits from cooperation with Taipei. “There are very concrete practical steps that would help our people without damaging Lithuania’s image or compromising, while also providing an economic breakthrough and opportunities for our businesses,” he explained.