Lithuania’s New Three-Party Coalition Formed: Reaffirming Support for Ukraine and NATO

Following the 2024 parliamentary elections, Lithuania’s Social Democratic Party (SDP) has spearheaded the formation of its third coalition government in eighteen months. The three-party alliance officially signed a coalition agreement on the 18th, securing 75 out of 141 seats in parliament. Gintautas Paluckas, the Social Democratic leader, is set to become Prime Minister.

The coalition comprises the Social Democrats, the Democrats "For Lithuania," and the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union. According to the Lithuanian National Radio and Television (LRT), the cabinet will be divided among the partners: the Democrats will oversee the Energy, Health, and Agriculture ministries, while the Farmers and Greens Union will lead the Justice and Economy and Innovation ministries. The SDP retains control over the remaining nine ministries.

The coalition agreement prioritizes social equity, fiscal stability, and investment-friendly policies while pledging to minimize public internal disagreements to ensure governance stability. Regarding foreign and security policy, the government reaffirmed its steadfast support for Ukraine and its commitment to NATO, emphasizing the necessity of collective defense. Furthermore, the coalition aims to pragmatically normalize relations with China, restoring diplomatic representation to a level consistent with other EU nations, provided national security and sovereignty remain uncompromised.

On defense, the new administration intends to bolster defense resilience, including the establishment of a division-sized unit, preparations for the German brigade deployment, and the enhancement of air defense and anti-drone capabilities. Domestic policy goals include reforming family welfare, implementing free school meals for all primary students, and expanding public transport infrastructure.

Per the constitutional process, President Gitanas Nauseda must formally nominate the Prime Minister, followed by a parliamentary vote to confirm the government and its cabinet.