Lithuania appoints Sinkevicius prime minister with pledge of defence spending, US troop presence
The manifesto keeps defense spending above 5% of GDP and seeks a continued U.S. troop presence as deterrence against Russia.
- On Tuesday, Lithuania's parliament approved the government manifesto presented by Social Democrat Mindaugas Sinkevicius, clearing the way for him to become prime minister and his cabinet to take office.
- Sinkevicius replaces Social Democrat Inga Ruginiene, prime minister since last year, who stepped aside amid coalition turmoil; the new centre-left coalition includes the For Lithuania and Farmers and Green Union parties.
- In parliament, 72 of the 141 members backed the platform while 29 voted against it. The populist party Nemunas Dawn, whose leader faces charges of incitement to hatred, remains excluded from government.
- Lithuania, a top NATO spender, currently devotes an estimated 5.33% of its GDP to the military. Sinkevicius' manifesto pledges to maintain spending above 5% of GDP while supporting Ukraine.
- Seeking to deter Russia, the government plans continued military deterrence through external partnerships. Sinkevicius warned parliament that assuming the Russian military threat is subsiding due to recent losses would be a mistake.
15 Articles
15 Articles
After the coalition change, the new government can begin its work. Parliament gave the green light to the team and program of Social Democrat Mindaugas Sinkevičius.
Mindaugas Sinkevicius becomes Lithuania PM after parliament approves manifesto
Lithuania's parliament approved Mindaugas Sinkevicius' government program on Tuesday. This action allows him to formally assume the prime minister's office. The new administration will maintain high defense spending and support Ukraine. They will also continue seeking United States troop presence as a deterrent. The center-left coalition secured a narrow majority in the legislature.
In the field of foreign policy, the Cabinet of Ministers confirmed Ukraine ' s continued support in reflecting Russia ' s aggression.
After the Seimas approved the Mindaugas Sinkevičius Government and its program on Tuesday morning, the new Prime Minister and the entire Cabinet of Ministers will be sworn in in parliament in the afternoon.
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