LTU
Stories (5)
Taiwan, China, Belarus
Lithuania’s foreign policy is officially led by President Gitanas Nausėda and Foreign Minister Kęstutis Budrys, with the government implementing the president’s agenda. In recent months, a quiet power struggle has emerged between Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė and Budrys over a more active foreign policy role, aided by Mindaugas Sinkevičius (head of the ruling Social Democratic Party). Sinkevičius often acts as an ally to Ruginienė, fueling speculation Budrys could be a future
2026-05-24Is Taiwan Fever Breaking in Lithuania?
Summary: - Lithuania and Taiwan built a notable unofficial diplomatic link, with Taiwan’s office in Vilnius (2021) and Lithuania’s in Taipei (2022). Beijing retaliated with a coercive mix of diplomatic and economic pressure, and both capitals’ embassies remain closed. - After Lithuania’s 2024 elections, Vilnius aims to normalize ties with the PRC while debating how to balance this with its Taiwan policy and democracy values. - Lithuania’s economy has remained positive in rece
2026-05-24Lithuanian Parties Shift Focus from Taiwan
Summary: A Vilnius University analysis reviews how Lithuania’s major political parties frame foreign policy for the October Seimas elections. Key takeaways: - Taiwan and China: The Taiwanese issue is no longer central for the Conservatives; Beijing relations are now a focal point for ruling and other parties, though only two liberal parties still openly back Taiwan engagement. The TS–LKD program excludes Taiwan entirely, highlighting shifting priorities. - Parties with detail
2026-05-24Lithuania's Defence Boost and China Reset
Lithuania’s incoming government under PM-designate Inga Ruginienė presented a broad program focusing on defence, taxation, social and economic policy, and foreign relations. Key points relevant to your query: - Foreign policy and diplomacy - Reset with China: Dropping the label of China as a security threat; aim to restore diplomatic representation to a level comparable with other EU member states. - Overall foreign policy direction emphasizes a more balanced, EU-aligned
2026-05-24Lithuania's Security Strategy Against Russia
Lithuania is updating its national security strategy to highlight an “existential” threat from Russia and to stress the importance of allied deterrence, including a continued US military presence. Key points: - The revised strategy warns of increased risk of military conflict by 2030 and Russia’s ability to rebuild warfighting capacity. - Defence pillars emphasized: armed defence, territorial defence, societal resilience, and strong alliances with emphasis on US forces in the
2026-05-24