"U.S. Commemorates Inaugural Hostage Day, Families Seek Justice"
The US observed its first Hostage and Wrongful Detainee Day, with a flag-raising ceremony at the State Department to honor those who have returned, those who will not, and those still held captive abroad. Families of detainees gathered to advocate for their loved ones, expressing frustration at the lack of progress and pleading for President Biden to meet with them. US officials maintain that a presidential meeting is not necessary for progress, but Biden has expressed commitment to bringing home Americans wrongfully detained abroad, including those held by Russia.