As the search intensifies for four US soldiers missing for two days in Lithuania, authorities report their vehicle has been found submerged. NATO Chief Mark Rutte mentioned unverified reports of their deaths, while the Lithuanian military continues to investigate.
Ongoing Search for Missing US Soldiers in Lithuania amid Training Drills
Ongoing Search for Missing US Soldiers in Lithuania amid Training Drills
Four US soldiers remain unaccounted for during military exercises in Lithuania, prompting extensive search efforts.
The Lithuanian army has launched a vigorous search operation for four missing US soldiers who disappeared during training exercises in the Baltic region close to the Belarusian border. The soldiers went missing on Tuesday afternoon, and their tracked vehicle has since been discovered submerged in water, according to military officials.
Despite earlier reports suggesting the potential death of the soldiers, which were relayed by NATO chief Mark Rutte, the Lithuanian army has stated that there is currently no evidence confirming such claims. "A rescue operation is intensively ongoing," they announced on X, affirming their commitment to finding the soldiers.
The soldiers were participating in scheduled tactical drills in Pabrade, situated in eastern Lithuania, and are identified as part of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, as confirmed by the public affairs office of the US Army Europe and Africa. Lithuanian authorities received the initial report of their disappearance shortly after they went missing.
The Lithuanian military has identified a possible scene related to the incident and has mobilized troops, helicopters, and state border guards for the search. “People are working round the clock. Everybody remains on standby, ready to provide emergency medical support,” stated Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene on X.
Lithuania, a member of NATO and the EU, is home to over 1,000 American troops who rotate through the country for training purposes. Lieut. Gen. Charles Costanza, the commanding general of the V Corps, expressed gratitude to the Lithuanian armed forces and first responders for their rapid response in assisting search efforts for the missing soldiers.
