Big US hunt for troops
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.HANOI (AP) - The United States will tomorrow launch its largest search mission for Americans missing in action (MIAs) since the end of the war, as Washington and Hanoi continue to edge toward better relations.
The operation comes at a time when the US is reassessing the MIAs issue and when and how to move ahead in lifting its 19-year trade embargo against its former enemy.
Some Western diplomats and businessmen anticipate such a move will be made this year. A dozen US companies already have registered to bid for about dollars 300m ( pounds 200m) in internationally financed road projects following an easing of the embargo last September by President Bill Clinton.
The President has made further steps toward renewing trade and diplomatic relations with Vietnam contingent on Hanoi's progress in the fullest possible accounting of the 2,239 Americans still unaccounted for.
Some veterans' groups and MIA family members oppose renewed ties with Vietnam, claiming Hanoi continues to withhold information and remains. Since the war, Vietnam has handed over 280 sets of remains that have been positively identified as Americans.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments