Urgent Search for Missing US Soldiers in Lithuania Amidst Training Exercise

As the search continues for four US soldiers missing in Lithuania, authorities are on high alert. Reports suggest their tracked vehicle went underwater near the Belarusian border, although no evidence of fatalities has been confirmed. The incident occurred during a routine training exercise.

The Lithuanian military is actively searching for four US soldiers who have been missing for two days while training in the Baltic nation. The soldiers, part of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, went missing on Tuesday afternoon during military drills near the eastern town of Pabrade, close to the Belarus border.

According to reports, their tracked vehicle has been located submerged in a body of water. While initial comments from NATO chief Mark Rutte indicated that he had received information regarding the potential deaths of the soldiers, the Lithuanian army has since stated that no evidence confirming their deaths has been discovered.

The ongoing search operation is significant, involving NATO forces, helicopters, and border guard personnel. The Lithuanian military confirmed that they had received reports concerning the missing soldiers shortly after they disappeared. "A possible scene has now been identified," said the Lithuanian military, emphasizing that search efforts will continue tirelessly.

On X, Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovile Sakaliene mentioned that emergency medical support teams are on standby as they pursue leads in the investigation. The presence of over 1,000 American troops in Lithuania, stationed there rotationally, underscores the long-standing military relationship between Lithuania and the United States.

Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, the general commanding V Corps, expressed gratitude towards the Lithuanian armed forces and first responders for their swift action in aiding the search operations. The situation remains fluid as authorities work to locate the missing soldiers.