Lithuanian deputy finance minister under fire for observing May 9 Victory Day Social Democrats urge him to end tradition

A scandal has erupted in Lithuania surrounding Valentin Gavrilov, the newly appointed deputy finance minister.

The controversy began when Gavrilov posted on social media to congratulate others on Victory Day, stating that he would continue to observe the date as it holds significant personal meaning for his family, Caliber.Az reports referencing Lithuanian media.

Gavrilov explained, “For our family, this date has always been important. Yes, I understand the current context, but I maintain respect for the memory of my grandfathers and other relatives... We try to maintain this tradition: on May 9, and if it doesn't work out, on the 8th or 10th.”

This statement sparked discontent among members of his own party, the Social Democratic Party. Fellow party members quickly called for his resignation. The party leadership intends to recommend that Gavrilov stop celebrating Victory Day.

Former culture minister and Seimas deputy, Simonas Kairis, criticized Gavrilov’s actions, calling them an example of “everyday Sovietism.” Additionally, advisers to Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda voiced their disagreement, stating that Gavrilov’s personal position, in light of his official role, is both “incomprehensible and unacceptable.”

Gavrilov, who graduated from the Military Academy's platoon leader course in 2003 and is a retired lieutenant, has expressed strong support for Ukraine and emphasized his readiness to defend Lithuania in the face of aggression. “I am ready to defend independence morally and otherwise, there is no question of that,” Gavrilov stated.

In response to the controversy, Social Democrat Ruslanas Baranovas, vice chairman of the parliamentary Foreign Affairs Committee, called for Gavrilov’s resignation. Baranovas wrote on Facebook, “May 9 is an important day for all Lithuanian families because it is the day of the occupation of Lithuania. The deputy finance minister can choose to see other shades and continue to commemorate it – we are a democracy – just let him resign first.”

The Vilnius branch of the Social Democratic Party, to which Gavrilov belongs, has recommended that he refrain from visiting the cemetery on May 9 going forward.

On January 10, the President’s Office weighed in, calling Gavrilov’s stance on May 9 “incomprehensible and unjustifiable.” However, Lithuanian Finance Minister Rimantas Šadžius defended his deputy’s loyalty, saying, “I do not doubt his loyalty to the State of Lithuania and his qualifications, and that is the only explanation, the only comment,” adding that Gavrilov can continue his work.

In Lithuania, as in much of the Western world, May 8 is commemorated as the day marking the end of World War II, when Germany signed its surrender in 1945.

By Tamilla Hasanova