American Prisoner Released by Russia as Witkoff Praises Putin
74-year-old retired teacher, Stephen Hubbard, has been released by Russia after being imprisoned for four years for fighting against their country in Eastern Ukraine. Hubbard was captured and convicted of engaging in armed conflict against Russia.
The release of Hubbard occurred without the involvement of a swap deal. U.S. special envoy, Steve Witkoff, welcomed Hubbard in St. Petersburg. Following the meeting, Witkoff proceeded to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin and offered unusually glowing remarks about him.
Stephen Hubbard Released from Russian Custody
American citizen, Stephen Hubbard, has been granted freedom by Russia after spending four years in detention for his alleged involvement in armed conflict against the nation in Eastern Ukraine. Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired teacher, was apprehended and convicted for engaging in armed struggle against Russia.
The release of Hubbard did not involve a swap agreement. U.S. special envoy, Steve Witkoff, greeted Hubbard in St. Petersburg. Following the meeting, Witkoff met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and delivered praise that was notably effusive.
Russian Envoy Steve Witkoff Welcomes Home Stephen Hubbard
Stephen Hubbard, an American citizen who has been imprisoned in Russia for the past four years due to his alleged involvement in armed conflict within Ukraine's Eastern region, has been released. Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired teacher, was apprehended and convicted for actively participating in military operations against Russia.
The discharge of Hubbard did not necessitate a swap arrangement. U.S. special envoy, Steve Witkoff, met Hubbard in St. Petersburg. Following the encounter, Witkoff met with Russian President Vladimir Putin and delivered an unusually glowing assessment.
<small>Source: PBS NewsHour — read the original story there.</small>