Russia Releases US Citizen After Trump Plea

Breaking news: Russia has released American citizen Stephen Hubbard, a retired teacher previously imprisoned on allegations of fighting as a mercenary in Ukraine. The announcement came during a meeting between US envoy Steve Witkoff and Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg. Hubbard was sentenced after a closed trial to nearly seven years in prison following accusations from Russian prosecutors that he joined the Ukrainian military after the conflict began. US officials, under both the current and previous administrations, designated him as wrongfully detained. The release follows direct diplomatic efforts led by President Donald Trump, who publicly stated his involvement in discussions with President Putin regarding Hubbard's case. This development occurs amid ongoing efforts to negotiate an end to the five-year conflict between Russia and Ukraine, with Witkoff pressing for a broader resolution. The move is seen as a significant moment in US-Russia relations and comes as the Trump administration adjusts key policies in the region.