Thousands Protest Lithuania's Ruling Coalition

Over 5,000 Lithuanians protested outside the parliament against the Social Democrats’ coalition with the Nemunas Dawn party, led by Remigijus Zemaitaitis, who faces antisemitism charges. The coalition, which gives the Social Democrats control of 86 seats in the 141-member parliament, has sparked national outrage due to Zemaitaitis's trial for inciting hatred against Jews and downplaying the Holocaust. Protesters, organized by Justinas Žilinskas and others, emphasized the need for political decency and zero tolerance for antisemitism, calling the day a 'national shame.' Zemaitaitis has denied the allegations and criticized the protest as an attempt at a coup. Lithuania's president also expressed concern about the coalition's potential to incite intolerance given the country's historical context with the Holocaust. The new government is expected to be sworn in by December amidst these tensions.