Trump envoy praises Putin

Steve Witkoff thanked Putin for releasing Stephen Hubbard, a US citizen detained for four years on fabricated charges.

“You talk so much about my president, President Trump, being a humanitarian. You are a humanitarian also, sir, and I salute that.”

Trump's direct appeal

Trump directly asked Putin to release Hubbard after learning of his case, calling him 'on his way back home and will soon be with his family'.

Hubbard's detention

Hubbard was held in Russia since 2022, accused of being a Ukrainian mercenary with call signs 'Samurai' and 'Ninja'.

Trump administration's stance

The US says it built a relationship with Putin to end the war, with no swap needed for Hubbard's release.

“The United States, out of respect for President Trump, was not required to give anything in return, an unprecedented situation for Russia.”

Ukraine's response

Ukraine reported reduced intelligence sharing, limited Starshield access, and suspended Patriot interceptors deliveries.

Hubbard's health

Hubbard's health is fragile; he will be flown to a Texas facility for evaluation and treatment.

Trump's relationship with Putin

Trump has repeatedly sided with Russia and called for Ukraine to replace Zelenskyy, a move critics say undermines Ukraine.

What happens next

Hubbard's release strengthens Trump's relationship with Putin but risks further tensions with Ukraine.