Lithuanian parliament speaker says foreign minister Budrys works professionally
The speaker of Lithuania’s parliament, Juozas Olekas, has stated that Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys is performing his duties professionally and effectively represents Lithuania’s interests in international forums, LRT reports.
“It seems to me that the minister travels extensively, actively participates in events, and mobilises our diplomatic staff. I believe he carries out his work professionally,” Olekas told the ELTA news agency when asked to assess Budrys’ performance.
Recent weeks have seen criticism of Budrys over his statements regarding Kaliningrad, as well as his approach to relations with Belarus and China. Unofficial reports also suggest that his positions do not always align with government foreign policy guidelines, including disagreements with Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė—particularly over a critical minerals agreement with the US.
Some Social Democrats have also expressed dissatisfaction with Budrys’ regional visits and meetings with party branch representatives.
Olekas acknowledged that criticism is common for ministers but noted that the foreign minister’s role is inherently more public, drawing greater scrutiny. “Which minister isn’t criticised? Everyone faces criticism. The foreign minister’s work is more visible, involving more public statements and representation. I think a lot has been accomplished,” he said.
He highlighted ongoing challenges, including restoring Lithuania’s relations with China to the current European level, managing relations with neighbouring Belarus, and addressing migration and airspace security issues.
Earlier reports by LRT indicated that the governing Social Democratic Party’s council may decide this weekend whether to replace Budrys as foreign minister. According to sources, at least five party members have privately argued that his stance on foreign policy does not fully reflect the party’s or government’s established positions.
Public discussions about differing views between Budrys and Prime Minister Ruginienė have persisted since she began independently commenting on foreign policy matters earlier this year. Ruginienė has previously denied that her increased involvement signals distrust in the foreign minister, reiterating her confidence in him. Budrys himself stated in mid-March that he does not feel in competition with the prime minister and that their positions on foreign policy align.
President Gitanas Nausėda has also positively assessed Budrys’ work, stating that the minister maintains principled positions on key issues, implements the government’s programme, and follows presidential guidelines.