Lithuania’s incoming PM admits government risks empty promises if plans fail

Lithuania’s designated prime minister, Mindaugas Sinkevičius, has acknowledged that the government will face accusations of empty promises if it fails to deliver on its ambitious programme, as he presented the 21st government’s policy priorities to parliament on Tuesday, LRT.lt reports.

The programme outlines goals to strengthen national resilience, bolster family policies, raise incomes, reduce regional disparities, and set ambitious targets in defence and energy. It identifies Russia’s aggression, a fractured international order, the climate crisis, unpredictable AI development, demographic decline, and persistent cost-of-living pressures as key challenges.

Sinkevičius highlighted growing political radicalisation in Lithuania, warning that opponents are increasingly treated as enemies rather than fellow citizens with differing views. He urged all political forces to work together to halt this dangerous trend.

On demographics, he described Lithuania’s situation as one of Europe’s most severe crises, requiring comprehensive solutions. He also addressed criticism that the government’s focus on elderly welfare reflects an ideology that measures human worth solely by productivity.

Opposition leader Laurynas Kasčiūnas pressed Sinkevičius on funding, asking how the government would finance its commitments. Sinkevičius admitted the process would not be quick or easy, noting that implementation details would be outlined in a separate action plan over the next two years.

“If we raise expectations and fail to deliver, society will be disappointed,” Kasčiūnas warned. Sinkevičius responded that the government must do its “homework” to ensure all pledges are met.