International Search Efforts Intensify for Four Missing U.S. Soldiers in Lithuania

International Search Efforts Intensify for Four Missing U.S. Soldiers in Lithuania

The Polish military is joining forces with the Lithuanian Army and the U.S. Army to assist in a critical recovery operation aimed at locating four U.S. Army soldiers who disappeared during a training exercise near Pabradė, Lithuania. The soldiers, stationed at Fort Stewart in Georgia, were performing a scheduled maintenance mission when they went missing.

According to U.S. Army Europe and Africa public affairs, the soldiers were riding in an M88 Hercules armored recovery vehicle tasked with retrieving another U.S. Army vehicle in a designated training area when they lost contact.

The initial search efforts have seen hundreds of U.S. and Lithuanian soldiers as well as local law enforcement agencies mobilized, alongside military helicopters and dive teams, all navigating the challenging terrain characterized by dense forests and swampy conditions.

Despite these efforts, the missing soldiers have yet to be found. Meanwhile, the M88 Hercules vehicle itself has been discovered submerged in a body of water within the training area. This location is notable for being adjacent to a highly pressurized gas pipeline, raising safety concerns during the recovery process.

Commitment to Find the Missing Soldiers

In a statement to Fox News Digital, Lithuanian Defense Minister Dovilė Šakalienė emphasized the government’s dedication to the search efforts since the onset of the incident. She asserted that Lithuania has committed all necessary resources from its armed forces and internal affairs ministries to locate the missing personnel.

Šakalienė stated, “From helicopters equipped with thermal vision to ground forces, we are continuing our search with utmost intensity.” The complexity of recovery efforts is further compounded by the challenging environmental conditions.

Challenges in Recovery Operations

Following reports from U.S. Army Europe and Africa, officials noted that water, thick mud, and unstable ground around the submerged vehicle have hindered search operations. This has necessitated the use of specialized equipment to drain water from the site and stabilize the surrounding area.

On Thursday, Polish officials announced the deployment of troops equipped with engineering aids to bolster the recovery efforts. As of Thursday afternoon, strategic measures included land dredging equipment en route to the site, as well as reinforcement of a dam to isolate the mud pumping operation.

Šakalienė confirmed that the gas pressure at the site has been successfully removed, enhancing safety for the recovery team. A water master dredger and over 900 feet of bulk piping are scheduled for installation on Friday morning, allowing the team to initiate the pumping of water and mud.

Search Operations Underway

The goal of the recovery team is to begin pumping efforts by evening, paving the way for divers and hydrographic teams to evaluate the condition and positioning of the submerged vehicle. These assessments are critical, as the status of the vehicle—whether it is overturned or stable—remains unknown.

A diver will attach cables to the vehicle, and workers will utilize pulleys to safely tow it to the shore. This stage is pivotal, as it will determine whether the missing soldiers are still inside the vehicle.

Uncertain Fate of the Missing Soldiers

As the search continues, it remains unclear whether the soldiers managed to escape before the vehicle sank. Šakalienė noted that, as of Thursday afternoon, there was no evidence confirming their casualties. She expressed concern for their well-being amid the arduous conditions that could include factors such as disorientation or hypothermia.

“We are not losing hope until the very last moment. These are strong soldiers, and all scenarios are possible,” she commented. Lithuania, as a NATO member, is steadfast in its commitment to treat American soldiers as their own, ensuring that they will not be left behind.

“We are working with them, and our entire society is heartbroken as we witness each moment of this rescue operation,” Šakalienė added, highlighting the emotional weight felt across the nation. Her personal connection as a mother resonated, as she stated that she could only imagine the anxiety faced by the soldiers’ families.

International Support and Ongoing Efforts

Polish Deputy Prime Minister Władysław Kosiniak-Kamysz confirmed the urgent deployment of several dozen Polish soldiers, equipped with heavy machinery and trained divers, to assist in the operation. He echoed the sentiments of solidarity, stating, “We are responding to a request from our allies, #StrongerTogether.”

Lithuanian officials remain in close contact with U.S. Ambassador Kara C. McDonald and U.S. Army personnel. U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Curtis Taylor, commanding general of the 1st Armored Division, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts, emphasizing the importance of leveraging every available U.S. and Lithuanian resource throughout this operation.

As the mission evolves into a broader search and recovery effort, support from both the U.S. and Lithuanian forces illustrates the deep commitment to safeguarding personnel safety. Taylor acknowledged the ongoing support from Lithuanian allies, stating that their tireless efforts have made a significant impact in these critical hours.

Community Support and Vigil

The U.S. Army’s 3rd Infantry Division has ensured that the families of the missing soldiers remain informed throughout this emotionally charged process. Taylor reassured the community that the military shares in the burden, stating, “This tragic situation weighs heavily on all of us, and we will not rest until our soldiers are located.”

Amid the search efforts, Lithuanian leaders organized a community prayer service scheduled for Sunday at the capital cathedral. This gathering reflects both national solidarity and the collective hope for the safe return of the missing soldiers.

As this unfolding situation continues to capture attention, the military installations, lawmakers, and community leaders all resonate with the same message of unwavering support. Searching for answers through prayer and continued efforts serves as a testament to the partnership and camaraderie bonded by these nations.

The training site’s proximity to Belarus, a key Russian ally, underscores the complexities surrounding this mission. Ongoing diplomatic concerns regarding regional stability underscore the importance of unity in times of crisis.

The White House and Fort Stewart have not yet responded to requests for further information. As the search persists, the weight of anxiety and determination hangs over the allies involved.

Contributions to this report were made by the Associated Press and Fox News Digital’s Stephen Sorace.