Lithuanian Prime Minister I. Ruginiene returned from Italy aboard a 'Spartan' aircraft, which was part of a government effort to save costs on returning the official delegation.
In early March, the crew of the 'Spartan' aircraft participated in scheduled training courses in Italy. Accompanying the crew back to Lithuania was Prime Minister I. Ruginiene, who was there during an official visit. The Ministry of National Defence reported that the careful planning by Ruginiene helped save state funds, as there was no need to purchase flight tickets for the entire delegation to return to Lithuania. This strategic use of military resources underscores the government’s commitment to fiscal responsibility.
The 'Spartan' aircraft flew to Italy for training courses that took place from March 4 to 6 at the Pratica di Mare airbase near Rome. After these courses, Ruginiene was flown back to Lithuania on March 8. The crew of the aircraft lived in military facilities during their stay, eliminating additional costs for accommodation and maintenance. This arrangement highlights how governmental agencies are leveraging military assets to support official functions more effectively.
Reports from the news portal 'Delfi' noted that the Prime Minister returned to Lithuania with a delegation that included her spouse, Vismantas Ruginis, and their children, suggesting a familial aspect to her official engagements. Following recent criticisms aimed at Ruginiene’s leadership, particularly from A. Širinskienė who described her as a weak leader or a target of political attacks, this return may mark an important moment for Ruginiene to reaffirm her position amid political pressures.
