Nausėda leads in first round of Lithuanian presidential election, faces run-off

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda is likely to win a second term after the first round of voting. The election focused on security concerns due to Russia's war in Ukraine. A run-off will be held on 26 May against Prime Minister Ingrida Šimonytė, who got 20% of the votes. People in the Baltic region, including Lithuania, are worried about potential Russian aggression. Many Lithuanians believe a Russian attack could happen. Candidates like Nausėda and Šimonytė are prepared for conflict by keeping food supplies at home. Both candidates want to increase defense spending to 3% of Lithuania's GDP to modernize the army and support German troops stationed in Lithuania. They disagree on issues like same-sex civil partnerships. The Lithuanian president has important roles in defense, national security, and representing the country in international summits. The president works with the government to set foreign and security policies, can veto laws, and has a say in appointing key officials. Nausėda's campaign focused on urging Western allies to provide more military support to Ukraine. Most Lithuanians fear a Russian attack, and leaders believe Russia may continue aggressive actions in the future. The goal is to strengthen Lithuania's military and infrastructure to support German troops stationed in the country. European leaders are concerned about potential future Russian aggression in the region.