Four US Soldiers Missing During Training Exercise in Lithuania

Pabradė, Lithuania – Four American soldiers are currently unaccounted for following a military training exercise in eastern Lithuania. The soldiers, part of the 1st Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, were reported missing on March 25, 2025, while conducting drills at the General Silvestras Žukauskas training facility.

Reports indicate that a notification regarding the disappearance was received by Lithuanian authorities at approximately 4:45 PM local time. The missing personnel were last seen with a tracked vehicle during their training exercises at the facility located in Pabradė.

In response to the situation, the Lithuanian Armed Forces have initiated a large-scale search operation that began the same day. This operation includes support from international military forces, as well as the deployment of helicopters from both the Air Force and the State Border Guard Service.

A specific area has been identified as a potential incident location, and efforts to locate the missing soldiers are being coordinated with assistance from the Fire and Rescue Department and other organizations. The Lithuanian Armed Forces emphasized the urgency and priority of these search efforts to ensure the safety of the missing personnel.

Statements from Military Officials

Lt. Gen. Charles Costanza, commanding general of the V Corps, acknowledged the collaborative effort in a statement made to Lithuanian Radio and Television (LRT). He expressed gratitude towards the Lithuanian Armed Forces and first responders for their prompt action in the rescue efforts. “It's this kind of teamwork and support that exemplifies the importance of our partnership and our humanity regardless of what flags we wear on our shoulders,” he stated.

Giedrimas Jeglinskas, chairman of the parliamentary Committee on National Security and Defence, confirmed that authorities are aware of the situation but have requested discretion at this time. “Let’s be respectful, let’s allow all the procedures to do their work,” he commented during an interview with LRT RADIO. He assured the public that both police and military personnel are actively engaged in the search and investigation.

US Military Involvement and Support

The US Army Europe and Africa has also confirmed the status of the missing soldiers. As investigations and search operations continue, officials are working closely with Lithuanian counterparts to ensure all necessary resources are mobilized.

The incident underscores the importance of the strong military partnership between the United States and Lithuania, particularly given that both nations are jointly engaged in numerous training exercises aimed at enhancing combat readiness and coordination among allies.

As the situation develops, further updates will be provided regarding the ongoing search efforts and the status of the missing soldiers.