MIAs Don’t Top Yeltsin’s Agenda

I realize that the subject of this story (“Clinging to Hope,” July 6) is one that is very painful not only for those Americans who are uncertain about the whereabouts of their loved ones, but for the rest of us as well. However, Jane Reynolds-Howard is entirely too trusting when she states that she believes President Boris Yeltsin is sincere about wishing to clear up any suspicions there might be about possible incarceration of our MIAs on Russian soil.

Yeltsin’s agenda was very clear. He wants American aid, and what would catch and hold America’s attention better than giving her people hopes that her missing citizens might be found? It is unfortunate that Yeltsin chose a topic that tugs at our heartstrings, but it guarantees media exposure for him and his economic problems, and that was the whole point of his POW/MIA speech. I would not hold my breath.

DONNA LEEDS

Santa Monica