Second round of Lithuanian presidential election sees voters return to polls

Lithuania’s President Oversees Foreign and Defence Policy Amidst Key Tasks on NATO’s Eastern Flank

Lithuanians headed to the polls for the second round of the country’s presidential election, with incumbent president Gitanas Nausėda facing off against prime minister Ingrida Šimonytė for another five-year term. Nausėda, a moderate conservative and strong supporter of Ukraine, has been in office since 2019 and is considered a favorite to win.

With nearly 2 million citizens eligible to vote, polling stations opened early in Vilnius, with results expected to be announced by the Central Electoral Commission on Monday. Both Nausėda and Šimonytė, vocal critics of Russia and Belarus, failed to secure a majority in the first round, leading to this runoff election.

The election comes at a time of heightened tensions in the Baltic region, with reports suggesting possible Russian sabotage and territorial disputes in the Baltic Sea. Concerns are growing over mysterious attacks on Lithuanian and Polish facilities, with suspicions of Russian involvement.

As a NATO member, Lithuania plays a crucial role on the alliance’s eastern flank, making the presidential role particularly significant given the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Both candidates have maintained strong stances against Moscow’s aggression, aligning with the country’s foreign policy priorities.

The outcome of the election will have broader geopolitical implications for the region, as Lithuania continues to navigate its position on NATO’s eastern flank amidst growing tensions with Russia. As the results are awaited, all eyes are on the presidential race and its impact on the country’s foreign and defence policy.