LRT: Lithuanian governing party weighs future of FM Budrys

Lithuania’s ruling Social Democratic Party is considering a possible replacement of Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys at a meeting scheduled for Saturday (June 7), according to national broadcaster LRT, citing party sources.

Budrys, who has served as foreign minister since December 2024, is reportedly facing internal criticism that his position “does not fully correspond to the course set by the party and the government.”

According to sources within the party, concerns have been raised over his hardline rhetoric on Kaliningrad, as well as his approach to relations with Belarus and China.

The sources also indicated that the meeting could extend beyond the foreign ministry, with discussions potentially including broader changes to the governing coalition and a reshuffle of cabinet posts, including the position of Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė.

Deputy chair of the Social Democratic Party Indrė Kižienė confirmed to LRT that the agenda would include talks on the governing coalition.

“The composition of the government may also be raised. As for the Foreign Minister, I know that a conversation has taken place between the party leader and the minister. What the outcome will be — we will see on Saturday,” Kižienė said.

By Aghakazim Guliyev