The Social Democratic Party of Lithuania won the second round of parliamentary elections held on Sunday and plans to form a ruling coalition. It is worth noting that the party also took first place in the first round held two weeks ago.

According to the Central Election Commission of Lithuania, the social democrats secured 52 seats in the 141-seat parliament based on the results of both rounds. The party, which has been in opposition in recent years, is considering forming a three-party coalition with the "For Lithuania" Democratic Union and the Peasant and Green Party.

The ruling conservative party, the "Fatherland Union – Lithuanian Christian Democrats," won 28 seats. The leader of the bloc, Gabrielius Landsbergis, congratulated the social democrats on their victory:

"This is indeed a successful result. I wish you a responsible government and a responsible approach, and I have no doubt that you will do your best."

The leader of the Social Democratic Party and Member of the European Parliament, Vilija Blinkevičiūtė, was welcomed with flowers and applause at the party headquarters. She, in turn, thanked the citizens of Lithuania for their support. Regarding the impression the election results left on her, Blinkevičiūtė said, "The election results show that the people of Lithuania want change; they need a completely different government."

It is expected that Blinkevičiūtė will leave her position in the European Parliament to lead the Lithuanian government, but she responds cautiously to journalists' questions. "We will discuss this in the party. We will weigh all the pros and cons and make a decision considering everything," she added, stating that decisions will be made this week.

Initial opinion polls indicated a possible change in government in Lithuania, marking the first shift in power in the Baltic region since Russia's large-scale invasion of Ukraine. Blinkevičiūtė has repeatedly stated that Lithuania's foreign policy will not change, and aid to Ukraine will remain a priority for the authorities.

It is important to note that, according to AFP, Lithuania is one of the leading countries in providing aid to Ukraine and defense spending. This year, the country allocated 3.2% of its GDP to defense, significantly exceeding NATO's recommended level.