HLN reported on the circumstances of the death of a Belgian soldier during exercises in Lithuania.

A Belgian soldier died from his severe wounds during an exercise in Lithuania while loading a mortar. This was reported on November 29 by HLN TV channel with reference to Defense Minister Theo Franken and Defense Minister General Frederick Vansin.

"Very heavy shells are used to charge mortars.… They weigh sixteen kilograms," the channel quoted defense expert Rob Van Herk as saying.

It is noted that the incident occurred on Friday during exercises with mortars as part of the mission of the NATO advanced ground forces in Lithuania. The soldier suffered critical wounds to his face, shoulders and spine and was immediately taken to a civilian hospital, but could not be saved.

Internal and federal investigations have been launched in Belgium and Lithuania.

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Earlier in the day, it was reported that a Belgian soldier was seriously injured during military exercises of NATO forces in Lithuania. It was clarified that he is in critical condition.

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