Lithuania's Defense Minister Apologized for a €48,000 Company Party

Lithuanian Defense Minister Robertas Kaunas has come under criticism following reports of a staff party for employees of the Defense Ministry that cost nearly 48,000 euros.

In light of the public outcry, Kaunas apologized and acknowledged that the format, timing, and cost of the event were inappropriate given the current geopolitical situation.

“I sincerely apologize to those whom this situation has angered, disappointed, alarmed, or caused to doubt,” the minister said.

According to him, the event was intended to bring the team together and motivate employees. At the same time, following the scandal, he agreed with the Ministry of Defense’s labor union to develop a new, transparent employee incentive system that would comply with the principles of the rational use of budget funds.

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda stated that he expects an apology from the minister, emphasizing that this incident could negatively impact public perception of defense funding. Prime Minister Mindaugas Sinkevičius noted that Kaunas initially mishandled his comments on the situation but assured that confidence in him remains intact.

Source: LRT

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