Lithuania Elections Challenge Current Conservative Government

Lithuania is holding its second round of parliamentary elections, with the opposition Social Democrats leading after the first round, potentially unseating Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė's conservative government. Despite domestic issues such as high inflation and political scandals affecting the current government's popularity, the new government is expected to maintain Lithuania's strong NATO and EU membership stance, as well as its support for Ukraine. The Social Democrats, led by Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, aim to form a center-left coalition with other opposition parties and have pledged to address economic inequality by increasing taxes on the wealthy to improve social services. The elections occur amidst heightened security concerns due to Russia's actions in Ukraine and its proximity to Lithuania. The political shift is not anticipated to alter Lithuania's foreign policy significantly, particularly its defense spending and support for Ukraine. Results are expected to shape the political landscape for the next four years.