Lithuania’s government has formally resigned after a major reconfiguration of the country’s ruling coalition, opening the way for the appointment of a new prime minister and cabinet. The outgoing administration will continue to serve in a caretaker capacity until a successor government is approved.

The resignation follows a decision by the governing Social Democratic Party to end its partnership with the populist Dawn of Nemunas party, triggering a broader coalition realignment. The move came after months of political tensions and controversies surrounding figures linked to the former coalition partner.

Under Lithuania’s constitutional framework, substantial changes to the governing coalition require the prime minister and cabinet to step down, allowing a new government to be formed. President Gitanas Nausėda is expected to oversee the transition process and nominate a candidate for prime minister.

The Social Democrats have already agreed on a new three-party coalition with the Democratic Union “For Lithuania” and the Lithuanian Farmers and Greens Union. Together, the parties command a parliamentary majority and are expected to nominate Mindaugas Sinkevičius to lead the next government.

While several ministerial positions are expected to change, Lithuania’s core foreign and security policies are likely to remain intact. The incoming coalition has pledged continued support for NATO, the European Union and Ukraine, while also signalling a more pragmatic approach to relations with China.

The transition marks another significant political shift in Lithuania, which is set to welcome its third prime minister in less than two years.