Ex-PM Skvernelis Returns From Trip With Surprising New Look

Saulius Skvernelis, Lithuania's former prime minister, has reappeared with a notably altered appearance after a trip to Nice, France. The politician, previously known for keeping his head and face clean-shaven, now sports a relaxed look featuring a stylish beard and mustache, making him almost unrecognizable.

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If I have traveled, it means it was done in compliance with the law.

Skvernelis's trip abroad comes while he is under intensive supervision, including an electronic ankle monitor, as part of a legal investigation into suspected bribery within the Plant Growing Service. Despite the restrictions, he was granted permission to travel, a fact confirmed by the General Prosecutor's Office. A spokesperson stated that the ankle device can be temporarily removed for justified reasons, and Skvernelis's request to travel was approved after evaluating the provided arguments and case materials.

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Let people live their lives. If I have traveled, it means it was done in compliance with the law.

His changed appearance and recent travel have drawn public attention, especially after a reader reported seeing him without an ankle monitor at a foreign airport. Skvernelis addressed these observations, stating that any travel undertaken was in compliance with legal requirements. He is set to provide a comprehensive interview to the Delfi portal soon, where he plans to discuss past mistakes, his upcoming plans, and his connections with other individuals involved in the ongoing investigation.

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We can currently confirm that after examining the request submitted in the prescribed manner for permission for the suspect to temporarily leave Lithuania, the request was granted after evaluating the arguments stated therein and the pre-trial investigation materials.