Search for missing US soldier in Lithuanian swamp intensifies
The Lithuanian Armed Forces have announced the deployment of an additional amphibious excavator in the ongoing search for the fourth missing American soldier. Polish engineers and the Estonian K9 police have joined the operation to aid in the efforts.
What do you need to know?
- Where are the searches taking place? The searches are centred on the training ground in Pabradė, Lithuania, where four American soldiers have been reported missing.
- Who is involved in the operation? Polish engineers and the Estonian K9 police have teamed up with the Lithuanian Armed Forces to support the operation.
- What are the latest actions? The third amphibious excavator, equipped with special rakes, is being utilised to increase the chances of finding the last missing soldier.
The Lithuanian Armed Forces reported that Polish engineers and the Estonian K9 police are actively participating in the search for the fourth missing American soldier. An additional amphibious excavator is deployed in the operation, which is anticipated to enhance the likelihood of locating the missing individual.
"The search operation continues, with assistance of Poland and Estonia joining. Thank you, dear friends," stated a message on the Lithuanian Defence Ministry's profile.
Earlier, on Monday, Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda confirmed the death of three of the four soldiers.
Accident at the training ground during exercises. The combat vehicle sank in a swamp
The soldiers were in an M88 Hercules recovery vehicle that sank in a swamp. The vehicle settled 4 metres under water, covered by around 2 metres of silt. The retrieval of the vehicle was completed on Monday morning, marking a significant step in the search operation.
Lithuanian President Gitanas Nausėda extended his condolences to the families of the deceased soldiers, underscoring Lithuania's solidarity with the American nation. "Lithuania mourns together with the American nation. Please accept my heartfelt condolences, as well as those of the Lithuanian people," Nausėda conveyed to U.S. President Donald Trump on platform X.
Approximately 1,000 American soldiers, comprising two battalions, are stationed at the Pabradė training ground. They have been present since 2019 as part of rotational deployments, mainly within armoured brigades.
