Missing U.S. Armored Vehicle Found in Lithuania After Six-Day Search; Four Soldiers Still Unaccounted For

A U.S. armored vehicle that went missing during a training exercise in Lithuania has been recovered after an extensive six-day search. The vehicle was located at the General Silvestras Žukauskas training ground in the town of Pabradė, where it had been reported missing in the early hours of Tuesday morning. The U.S. Army confirmed the incident, which involved four American soldiers who remain unaccounted for.

The retrieval operation concluded successfully when the armored vehicle was pulled ashore from a swamp at 4:40 a.m. on Monday. Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė announced the completion of the towing operation in a Facebook post, noting that both Lithuanian Military Police and U.S. investigators are continuing their efforts to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident.

Despite the recovery of the vehicle, the whereabouts and condition of the four soldiers who were on board remain unknown. The ongoing investigation is focused on uncovering any details that could provide insight into the disappearance and current status of the soldiers. Authorities from both Lithuania and the United States are collaborating closely in this effort.

The incident has drawn attention to the challenges faced during military training exercises, particularly in unfamiliar or difficult terrain. As the investigation proceeds, both nations are committed to uncovering the facts and ensuring the safety of military personnel involved in such operations.