Lithuanian skater's impressive sixth-place finish sparked both national pride and renewed discussions about the treatment of athletes by the government. Following the performance, writer Fausta Marija Leščiauskaitė took to social media to express her mixed emotions, celebrating the skaters' achievements while highlighting the injustices faced by athlete Allison Reed, who was denied Lithuanian citizenship for many years. Leščiauskaitė emphasized that while athletes contribute greatly to national pride, countries must reciprocate to their citizens and residents, underlining the importance of mutual respect in these relationships.

In her Facebook post, Leščiauskaitė not only praised the artistic presentation and technical prowess of the skaters, but also lamented the past humiliation that athletes like Reed experienced at the hands of the Lithuanian government. She contrasted the pride felt while watching the performance, adorned with the Lithuanian flag, against the backdrop of how the country treated athletes who wished to represent Lithuania. Her comments reflect broader societal frustrations regarding the government's immigration and citizenship policies, especially in light of recent controversies about the acceptance of various migrants into the country.

The discussion around athlete treatment is essential, as it highlights the ongoing challenges that many face in Lithuania, not only in sports but also within the state's civic structure. As the nation grapples with its identity and its responsibilities to both its citizens and non-citizens, the pride in their sporting accomplishments stands juxtaposed with the recognition of past governmental failures. This case serves as a call for greater inclusivity and support for individuals who choose to associate with Lithuania, regardless of their backgrounds, suggesting an ongoing need for reform in policy to better represent the diverse makeup of the population and to nurture its talent.