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NATO has confirmed that four U.S. soldiers who went missing during a military exercise in Lithuania have been found dead.
The soldiers, who were part of a NATO training mission, were involved in an accident during routine drills near Pabradė, close to the Belarusian border.
According to officials, the incident occurred when the soldiers’ armored recovery vehicle became submerged in a body of water within the training area. A joint search effort by the U.S. Army, Lithuanian Armed Forces, and local authorities led to the discovery of the vehicle and the soldiers’ remains.
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte expressed his condolences, calling the incident a “deeply tragic loss.” U.S. military officials have also released a statement, confirming that investigations are underway to determine the exact circumstances surrounding the accident.
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The soldiers were stationed in Lithuania as part of NATO’s ongoing efforts to enhance regional security, especially amid rising tensions in Eastern Europe. Around 1,000 U.S. troops are currently deployed in the country, conducting training exercises alongside Lithuanian forces.
While details of the accident are still being reviewed, military officials are emphasizing the importance of safety protocols in all training operations. Further updates will be provided as the investigation continues.
The loss of these soldiers serves as a reminder of the risks faced by military personnel, even in non-combat situations. Their service and sacrifice are being honored by both U.S. and NATO officials, as flags at their base have been lowered in their memory.
