Lithuanian MFA's new Political Director faces criticism over appointment

Darius Skusevičius, a diplomat with prior experience as Lithuania's Ambassador to Canada and Deputy Foreign Minister, has taken on the role of Political Director at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA). The ministry confirmed his appointment, effective August 10, stating he was selected after evaluating his motivation, qualifications, abilities, management skills, and accumulated experience.

Skusevičius has been with the MFA since 2013. His previous roles include Deputy Foreign Minister from 2017 to 2019, and Ambassador to Canada from 2019 to 2024. Upon returning to Vilnius, he served as an ambassador-at-large, coordinating Ukraine's reconstruction efforts. He succeeds Laimonas Talat-Kelpša in the Political Director position.

However, the appointment has faced criticism from conservative Member of Parliament Žygimantas Pavilionis. He accused the current MFA head, Kęstutis Budrys, of politicizing the highest diplomatic position within the ministry. Pavilionis alleged that Skusevičius, previously a political advisor to former Foreign Minister Linas Antanas Linkevičius and a member of the Social Democratic Party, was unfairly promoted.

"Is Minister K. Budrys able to put his hand on his heart and confirm that D. Skusevičius, pushed into ambassadorial ranks at the last minute by L. Linkevičius, is a true diplomat of impeccable reputation, to whom the highest CAREER position in the ministry was granted based on professional merit?" Pavilionis questioned on Facebook. He also asked if the minister could confirm a transparent competition for the role.

The MFA responded by emphasizing that all appointed diplomats must uphold principles of service ethics, diplomatic conduct, integrity, and impartiality. The ministry stated that evaluations for positions, including the Political Director, focus on candidates' abilities, competencies, and relevant professional experience. All diplomats are expected to adhere to the principles outlined in Article 5, Part 1 of the Law on Diplomatic Service, which includes honesty and impartiality.