In brief
The U.S. military is actively searching for four soldiers from the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division who went missing in eastern Lithuania during tactical training. Local and NATO forces are collaborating in the recovery efforts.
Four U.S. Army soldiers have gone missing during a training mission in Lithuania, prompting an extensive search operation. The soldiers, part of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, were conducting tactical exercises near Pabrade, a city located close to the border with Belarus.The U.S. military reported that the soldiers and their vehicle were last detected on Tuesday at around 4:45 p.m. and that search and recovery efforts are currently in progress. The operation involves collaboration between the U.S. Army, Lithuanian Armed Forces, and local law enforcement. To assist in the search, Air Force helicopters and other resources are being deployed to a potential accident site within the training area. Lt. Gen. Charles Costanza, commanding general of the U.S. Army's V Corps, expressed his gratitude to the Lithuanian forces for their rapid response and support. The U.S. frequently conducts training operations in Lithuania, a NATO ally, especially as the country remains committed to supporting Ukraine amid ongoing tensions with Russia. The involvement of NATO forces is critical, especially with Belarus' strong ties to Russia.
