Putin frees jailed American Stephen Hubbard during talks with US envoy
Russian President Vladimir Putin released imprisoned US citizen Stephen Hubbard in St Petersburg on Wednesday while meeting with US envoy Steve Witkoff.
Release announced at airport
Putin stated that the 74-year-old retired teacher was freed and is now at Pulkovo Airport. The announcement came during a closed-door trial where Hubbard had previously pleaded guilty to mercenary charges.
Talks on peace resume
The Kremlin confirmed that Russia will restart US-mediated peace discussions with Ukraine as soon as next month. Witkoff urged the Russian leader to consider reviving these plans and reviewing new ideas for ending the conflict.
No exchange required
President Donald Trump noted on social media that the United States did not need to provide anything in return for this gesture. This unilateral release differs from previous prisoner swaps often seen between the two nations.
All 3 outlets report consistently
No differences in figures, names or dates across these reports.
- ABC News Australia
- South China Morning Post
- The Guardian
Reported by
3 independent outlets. Headlines as published. Links open the original report.
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ABC News Australia
Putin announces release of imprisoned US citizen during meeting with Witkoff
abc.net.au → -
South China Morning Post
Putin holds Ukraine peace talks with Trump’s envoy Witkoff, frees American Hubbard
scmp.com → -
The Guardian
Putin orders release of jailed American as he meets Trump envoy for Ukraine talks
theguardian.com →