Lithuanian PM says coalition stability questions will persist regardless of composition

Uncertainty over Lithuania’s ruling coalition will remain regardless of its political makeup, Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė told reporters on Thursday, as the governing Social Democrats prepare to decide on potential changes to their alliance.

Speaking to LNK Žinios, Ruginienė acknowledged that questions about coalition stability have been a recurring issue, even before the current government took office. “No matter what the coalition looks like, this question will always linger,” she said.

The prime minister added that clarity on the coalition’s future would come after the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party’s (LSDP) council meeting on Saturday, where members will review three possible scenarios for restructuring the majority. “The coalition exists to ensure smooth decision-making—that is our focus,” she stated.

When asked whether she would remain prime minister after the weekend, Ruginienė replied: “Saturday will provide answers to many questions.”

Tensions within the coalition emerged recently after lawmakers from the “Nemuno Aušra” (Dawn of Nemunas) faction opposed the establishment of a military training ground in Kapčiamiestis. The current ruling majority, formed after the 2024 parliamentary elections, initially included Social Democrats, “Nemuno Aušra,” and Democrats, but was later reshuffled to replace the Democrats with the Lithuanian Farmers, Greens, and Christian Families Union.

LSDP leader Vilija Blinkevičiūtė-Sinkevičienė has promised party members three potential coalition models for consideration, though she stressed that Saturday’s meeting would not address cabinet reshuffles. The coalition currently holds 80 seats in the 141-member Seimas.