Lithuanian social democrats not currently considering foreign minister’s dismissal

The Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP) has not included a discussion on the future of Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys in the agenda for its upcoming council meeting, a party representative told the ELTA news agency on Wednesday.

Andrius Grumadas, an LSDP spokesperson, confirmed that “the issue is not currently on the council’s agenda,” though he noted that members may propose additions at the start of the session. “The final decision on the agenda rests with the council,” he said.

Earlier on Wednesday, public broadcaster LRT reported, citing unnamed sources, that the party’s governing council—scheduled to meet on Saturday—could decide to replace Budrys. According to LRT’s sources, at least five social democrats have privately criticised the minister’s foreign policy stance as misaligned with the party’s and government’s official positions.

Seimas Speaker Viktorija Čmilytė-Nielsen, also an LSDP member, told ELTA that Budrys performs his duties professionally and effectively represents Lithuania’s interests internationally. Meanwhile, Robertas Duchnevičius, the party’s deputy chairman, stated he had no information about plans to discuss the minister’s future at the council meeting, suggesting the reports stemmed from “subjective assessments by some colleagues.”

LRT recalled that Budrys has faced recent criticism over his statements on Kaliningrad, as well as his approach toward Belarus and China. Unofficial discussions within the party have also questioned whether he consistently reflects government foreign policy priorities. Sources pointed to tensions with Prime Minister Ingrida Ruginienė, particularly over a critical minerals agreement with the US, as well as dissatisfaction among some party members regarding Budrys’ regional visits and meetings with local LSDP branches.

In March, Ruginienė denied that her increased public commentary on foreign policy signaled distrust in the foreign minister, insisting she maintained confidence in him. Budrys himself dismissed suggestions of competition with the prime minister, stating their positions on foreign policy were aligned. President Gitanas Nausėda has previously praised Budrys’ work, noting his adherence to government programs and presidential guidelines on key issues.