In a recent statement, Lithuanian Prime Minister I. Ruginienė expressed her critical views regarding the evacuation process for Lithuanian citizens from the UAE amidst a rising conflict in Eastern regions. She noted that she had spoken with the Minister of Foreign Affairs over the weekend, emphasizing her concerns about the lack of active involvement from the embassy. Ruginienė cited that while the embassy claimed to be working diligently, various excuses were offered, including communication breakdowns, which hindered the overall effectiveness of their efforts.

The Prime Minister highlighted that the evacuation, set to take place with a flight organized from Dubai to Lithuania for vulnerable groups, should have been more streamlined and efficient. She underscored the urgency of the situation as pregnant women and families with young children are among those prioritized for return. Ruginienė's remarks point to a need for better preparedness and responsiveness from Lithuanian diplomatic missions, especially in times of crisis.

Furthermore, it was reported that the evacuation from the Middle East incurred substantial costs for the evacuees, amounting to about one thousand euros, which has sparked public outrage due to the perceived lack of assistance from governmental institutions. The Prime Minister's comments reflect broader anxieties regarding the government’s commitment to citizen welfare during international crises, and the necessity for more robust support systems in such scenarios.