The United States European Command (EUCOM) announced the tragic loss of five service members in an air crash over the eastern Mediterranean Sea.
The incident occurred during a routine training mission on saturday morning, as confirmed by EUCOM in a statement on Sunday.
Following the mishap, search and rescue efforts were immediately initiated, but all five service members on board were determined to have lost their lives.
EUCOM stated that an investigation into the crash is currently underway, with no indications of any hostile activity involved, according to military officials.
President Joe Biden expressed his condolences, acknowledging the daily bravery and selflessness of service members who put their lives on the line for the country.
He and First Lady Jill Biden extended their prayers to the families and friends affected by the loss.
The identities of the victims will be withheld until 24 hours after their families have been notified, as specified by EUCOM