Influencer Speed‘s lithuanian Visit Sparks Debate on Value and Visibility
Vilnius, Lithuania – The recent visit of popular streamer Speed to Lithuania, orchestrated by operator slipz, has ignited discussions regarding the return on investment for public funds and the broader implications of global online visibility.Speed, known for his significant online following, arrived in Lithuania and was greeted at the port and city center by Slipz.His attire for the occasion consisted of slippers and shorts emblazoned with the “McDonald’s” logo.
upon arrival, Speed exclaimed, “Lithuania, we are here!” mispronouncing the country’s name. He later shook hands with the Minister of Economy, Lukas Savickas, and was presented with a colorful t-shirt, a replica of those gifted to Lithuanian basketball players by the band Grateful Dead in 1992.
The influencer’s itinerary included a series of cultural and recreational activities. These encompassed conventional folk dances,basketball games,a medieval sword duel with military personnel,a meeting with a magician,and a hot air balloon ride. From the top of the Vilnius TV tower,Speed remarked on the scenic beauty of the country,stating,”Look at all of Lithuania! How stunning,brother.”
The streamer’s actions in Latvia prior to his Lithuanian visit drew criticism from some local observers. Reports indicate that Speed performed a somersault near the Freedom Monument and sang from a balcony above the national radio station.One journalist characterized these actions as a cautionary symbol of how modern media has reshaped societal norms.
However, the most significant debate centered on the financial aspect of Speed’s visit. Lithuania allocated €20,000 towards the event,with other Baltic states also contributing financial support. This prompted a critical question: was the expenditure justified?
Arguments against the funding suggested that the money could have been more effectively utilized for economic stimulus. Conversely, proponents argued that the visit represented a valuable investment in engaging a younger demographic. Journalist Andrius Tapinas expressed the view that the global exposure generated by the event was well worth the cost.
Some even posited that the visit could be considered an investment in national security. A co-owner of a Vilnius-based consulting firm commented,”if the US ever has to decide whether it’s worth defending Lithuania,it’s important that they at least no about us.”
After a 12-hour broadcast, Speed concluded his Lithuanian journey with a stay at the luxury “Hotel Pacai.” He bid farewell to Lithuania during a live stream, and as his vehicle departed, young people were seen running alongside it.
