Stephen Hubbard, Retired US Teacher, Released by Russia Amidst Ongoing Ukraine Talks
Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired schoolteacher from the United States, has been released by Russian authorities after being detained since April 2022. His release was confirmed by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a meeting with US envoy Steve Witkoff in St. Petersburg.
Hubbard’s return is seen as a positive step in ongoing discussions aimed at addressing the conflict in Ukraine. Following his release, Witkoff expressed gratitude towards Hubbard’s freedom and referred to Putin as a ‘humanitarian,’ a comment that has since drawn criticism from lawmakers in the US due to Russia’s actions in Ukraine.
Putin’s spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, explained that Hubbard’s release came at the request of former President Donald Trump, who emphasized concerns about Hubbard’s health. Witkoff expressed relief on behalf of the American government, stating, “Because of you, he’s going home to his family.”
An emotional video captured Hubbard thanking Witkoff for his assistance. Reports indicate that he seemed cheerful and optimistic as he prepared to head back to the US.
Hubbard’s son, Joseph Coleman, was able to communicate with him briefly before his father’s flight, noting that his father sounded happy and lively.
Witkoff described the talks in St. Petersburg as productive and indicated plans for further discussions aimed at finding a way to end the conflict. Future meetings involving representatives from the US, Russia, and Ukraine are anticipated for mid-November.
Some of Witkoff’s comments have been met with backlash in Washington. Senator Thom Tillis described his remarks as “embarrassing and outrageous,” underscoring the contentious views on Russia’s role in the conflict.
Hubbard’s attorney, Martin De Luca, thanked those involved in securing his release, calling it a hopeful sign for peace. In a social media post, Trump highlighted that the US made no concessions for Hubbard’s freedom, viewing it as a significant achievement.
Previously, Hubbard had been sentenced to nearly seven years in prison for alleged involvement in mercenary activities related to the war in Ukraine. Arrested in the eastern city of Izyum, Russian officials accused him of collaborating with Ukrainian military forces, a claim his family has steadfastly denied.
As of now, Hubbard is recognized as the only American prisoner labeled as ‘wrongfully detained’ by the US government in Russia. His case adds to the complexities surrounding American detainees amid fluctuating diplomatic relations between the US and Russia.
