Lithuanian Democrats say no formal coalition talks held but would consider invitation

The Democratic Union “For Lithuania” (DSVL) has not received any official invitation to join the ruling coalition, though it would consider one if extended, acting party leader Virginijus Sinkevičius told ELTA on Thursday.

Speaking ahead of a Social Democratic Party (LSDP) decision on the coalition’s future, Sinkevičius confirmed no “substantive discussions” had taken place but said any formal invitation would be reviewed internally first. “If Democrats are invited, if some invitation comes, we will consider it,” he said. “We would first need to discuss this among our party branches. I want to hear the opinion of all party branches, as much time has passed, and only then could we begin any talks on what form or type of union might be possible.”

Sinkevičius stressed that any decision would depend on whether the government commits to a “fundamental reset” and clear priorities—not simply replacing the current junior coalition partner, the “Nemunas Dawn” party. “Democrats certainly won’t join the government just to become a number replacing ‘Nemunas Dawn,'” he said. “I don’t think that would solve anything. If there’s a real dialogue about essential changes and goals, then of course we’d consider it—but first, we need to talk.”

The acting DSVL leader also addressed speculation, reported by LRT.lt, that he could be proposed as foreign minister if the Social Democrats opt for a cabinet reshuffle. Sinkevičius neither confirmed nor denied the claims, stating he had “not received any offers” to take the post and would continue his work in the European Parliament for now. “There’s always criticism or commentary about ministers’ work, but I don’t see any changes in the government yet,” he said. “Democrats are not part of the government. I’ll continue my work in the EP.”

His comments follow mounting pressure within the ruling LSDP over its coalition with “Nemunas Dawn,” including criticism from President Gitanas Nausėda. The party’s council is set to review three potential scenarios for the coalition’s future at a meeting this weekend, though Speaker of the Seimas Juozas Olekas insisted earlier this week that the coalition’s composition would remain unchanged.

Tensions escalated after some coalition partners failed to support the establishment of a military training ground in Kapčiamiestis. LSDP leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius, who had previously delayed clarifying his position, has yet to outline the party’s next steps but promised an assessment “in the near future, considering all circumstances.”