Lithuanian social democrats delay coalition decision as Sinkevičius criticises ruling partner

The governing Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) has postponed a decision on potential changes to the ruling coalition, with leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius criticising coalition partner “Nemuno Aušra” while leaving future options open, LRT reports.

After a two-hour meeting on Thursday, the party’s council confirmed no immediate changes would be made, describing coalition shifts as a “strategic decision” to be determined after the upcoming party congress elects new leadership in the coming weeks.

“We did not expel anyone, did not invite anyone. But the door is ajar—both for leaving and entering,” Sinkevičius said cryptically when asked about the coalition’s future.

The LSDP leader explicitly ruled out forming a coalition with the conservative Homeland Union or the Liberal Movement, but left all other options on the table. Sinkevičius also took aim at Remigijus Žemaitaitis, leader of coalition partner “Nemuno Aušra,” suggesting his actions may be “harming the state.”

“We are making important decisions without one partner’s vote,” Sinkevičius said, referencing recent disputes, including a defence policy vote. “If we question one partner’s absence, how do we justify another’s?”

Earlier this week, Sinkevičius had denied active negotiations with the opposition Democratic Union “For Lithuania,” though he acknowledged “minimal discussions” were taking place.

The LSDP’s next congress, where a new leadership will be elected, is expected to clarify the party’s coalition strategy.