Authorities in Lithuania are actively searching for four US soldiers who have been missing for two days near the Belarusian border during military drills. The situation unfolded on Tuesday afternoon when the soldiers and their tracked vehicle went unaccounted for. The Lithuanian military announced that with the vehicle located submerged in water, a robust rescue operation began to locate the missing personnel, with no confirmed reports of fatalities. NATO officials, including Secretary General Mark Rutte, have stated they were informed of possible deaths, but further details remain scarce.
**Four US Soldiers Missing in Lithuania Amid Ongoing Search Efforts**
**Four US Soldiers Missing in Lithuania Amid Ongoing Search Efforts**
Search teams focused on finding four US soldiers missing during training exercises in Lithuania. Reports of their potential deaths are being addressed with caution.
The soldiers were involved in scheduled tactical training exercises near Pabrade, a town in eastern Lithuania. In a statement, US Army Europe and Africa confirmed the training status of the soldiers, who belong to the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division.
Lithuanian authorities received notifications about the soldiers' absence shortly after the vehicle was reported missing. Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene mentioned that search efforts include the deployment of both Lithuanian and foreign troops, border guards, and helicopters, who are all prepared to provide emergency medical assistance if necessary.
Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, commander of V Corps, expressed gratitude towards Lithuanian forces and responders for their rapid mobilization in the intensive search operations aimed at rescuing the soldiers. With Lithuania being a member of NATO and the EU, it currently hosts over 1,000 American troops stationed on a rotational basis as part of international defense collaboration.
Lithuanian authorities received notifications about the soldiers' absence shortly after the vehicle was reported missing. Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene mentioned that search efforts include the deployment of both Lithuanian and foreign troops, border guards, and helicopters, who are all prepared to provide emergency medical assistance if necessary.
Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, commander of V Corps, expressed gratitude towards Lithuanian forces and responders for their rapid mobilization in the intensive search operations aimed at rescuing the soldiers. With Lithuania being a member of NATO and the EU, it currently hosts over 1,000 American troops stationed on a rotational basis as part of international defense collaboration.
