Search Intensifies for Missing US Servicemen in Lithuania
An intensive search operation is underway in Lithuania for four United States soldiers who went missing during military exercises in the Baltic nation. The Lithuanian Armed Forces confirmed the ongoing search, following reports that the servicemen disappeared two days prior. The incident occurred near the border with Belarus, prompting a large-scale response to locate the missing personnel.
Vehicle Located Submerged
The US Army reported that the tracked vehicle associated with the missing soldiers was discovered submerged in water. The four servicemen and their vehicle were initially reported missing on Tuesday afternoon. Despite the discovery of the vehicle, Lithuanian authorities stated that a “rescue operation is intensively ongoing,” and refuted any confirmation of fatalities among the troops.
International Search Efforts Underway
A collaborative search effort is in progress, involving Lithuanian and foreign armed forces, aviation assets including helicopters, and state border guard personnel. These units have been deployed to the region to expedite the search and rescue mission for the missing soldiers.
Training Exercise Incident
The US Army Europe and Africa public affairs office released a statement confirming that the soldiers were participating in “scheduled tactical training” at the time of their disappearance. The exercises were taking place near Pabrade in eastern Lithuania, involving other NATO forces.
Unit Affiliation
Authorities have identified the missing servicemen as belonging to the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division. The disappearance was officially reported to Lithuanian authorities on Tuesday afternoon, triggering the immediate commencement of search operations.
vCard.red is a free platform for creating a mobile-friendly digital business cards. You can easily create a vCard and generate a QR code for it, allowing others to scan and save your contact details instantly.
The platform allows you to display contact information, social media links, services, and products all in one shareable link. Optional features include appointment scheduling, WhatsApp-based storefronts, media galleries, and custom design options.
“Possible Scene Identified”
The Lithuanian military issued an earlier statement on Wednesday indicating that “A possible scene has now been identified,” suggesting progress in narrowing down the search area and focusing rescue efforts.
High-Level Response and Gratitude
Lithuanian Defence Minister Dovile Sakaliene stated on social media platform X that personnel are working “round the clock” in the search efforts and are prepared to provide immediate medical assistance. Lieutenant General Charles Costanza, commanding general of the V Corps, expressed his gratitude to the Lithuanian armed forces and first responders for their swift assistance in the ongoing search operations.
NATO Presence in Lithuania
Lithuania, a member of both NATO and the European Union, plays host to a significant contingent of American troops. Over 1,000 US soldiers are stationed in the country on a rotational basis, highlighting the strategic importance of Lithuania within the NATO alliance and its role in regional security.