President urges Mindaugas Sinkevičius to clarify decision on leading the government

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda has urged Mindaugas Sinkevičius, leader of the ruling Social Democratic Party, to clarify his decision regarding the possibility of leading the government and to avoid prolonging coalition negotiations, LRT reports.

“In reality, we want Social Democratic Party leader Mindaugas Sinkevičius, having said A, to clearly say B as well. I see there is a desire to take on the leadership that Lithuania needs today in the executive branch,” the president told journalists on Sunday.

He also emphasized the need for coalition talks between the Social Democrats, Democrats, and the “Homeland Union” not to drag on too long, urging a focus on achieving results rather than demonstrating ambition.

“I do not think this is the right time for lengthy negotiations where both sides are at an impasse. I very much hope there will be enough political awareness to soon have a new government and prepare for the very important challenges of the near future,” Nausėda said.

According to BNS, the Social Democrats decided earlier in June to exclude “Nemuno aušra” from the ruling majority and instead invited the Democratic Union “For Lithuania” to join. Recent comments by Sinkevičius have fueled speculation that he may replace Ingrida Ruginienė as prime minister, though he has neither confirmed nor denied this.

Negotiations on the new coalition are expected to conclude next week. The ruling majority, comprising Social Democrats, Democrats, and the “Homeland Union,” would hold 75 seats in the Seimas.

Regarding the Energy Ministry, Nausėda stated he is not advocating for specific individuals but stressed the importance of appointing a competent minister who prioritizes national interests over business concerns.

“For the Energy Ministry, we need a minister who clearly understands where business interests lie and where state interests and goals lie. I have always fought not for specific individuals but against people entering the energy system or the Energy Ministry whose primary concern is not Lithuania’s interests but certain mercantile business interests,” he said.

Nausėda also addressed speculation about Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, affirming that he believes Budrys is performing well in his role.

“I would like to ask everyone who keeps raising this question in the public space: ‘What is wrong?’ Answer me,” the president said.