Ruling LSDP leader Sinkevicius set to take over as Lithuania's prime minister

Ruling LSDP leader Sinkevicius set to take over as Lithuania's prime minister
Mindaugas Sinkevicius said he is ready to take over as prime minister under a newly negotiated coalition agreement. / Mindaugas Sinkevicius via Facebook
By IntelliNews June 16, 2026

Lithuania is preparing for another change of government after Social Democratic (LSDP) leader Mindaugas Sinkevicius confirmed he is ready to take over as prime minister under a newly negotiated coalition agreement, according to a Facebook post from the politician on June 16. 

The coalition reshuffle is expected to trigger changes within the cabinet. Under the proposed arrangement, the Democrats "For Lithuania" would assume responsibility for the energy, health and agriculture ministries, while the Social Democrats would take control of the environment portfolio, according to independent news agency BNS.

The Social Democrats, the coalition’s main party, expelled the radical right Dawn of River Neman from the coalition.

The announcement follows weeks of political discussions after the collapse of the previous administration. Sinkevicius, elected chairman of the Lithuanian Social Democratic Party in May, is expected to head a coalition bringing together the Social Democrats, the Farmers and Greens group, and the Democrats "For Lithuania".

"I wish to inform you that I confirm my determination to take responsibility for the formation of the new government and to serve as prime minister," Sinkevicius wrote on Facebook. 

"I am ready to bring coalition partners to work together, pursue necessary changes and ensure that the Government's work is focused on results, people's welfare and strengthening the future of Lithuania."

He is set to replace Inga Ruginiene, who has led the government since last autumn after the resignation of former prime minister Gintautas Paluckas amid a corruption investigation.

Sinkevicius outlined a broad domestic agenda focused on easing pressure from rising prices and living costs, reducing poverty and social inequality, encouraging economic growth, improving employment conditions and strengthening access to healthcare services.

National security will also remain high on the government's agenda. According to Sinkevicius, Lithuania must continue reinforcing its defence capabilities while maintaining an active and effective foreign policy.

The new governing alliance would command a parliamentary majority of 75 seats in the 141-member Seimas, providing a stable base for the incoming administration.

Party leaders are expected to formally sign the coalition agreement later this week, BNS reported.

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