Stephen Hubbard's release

Russia freed 74-year-old American teacher Stephen Hubbard after nearly two years in detention and a prison sentence of almost seven years.

“Welcome home, Stephen, it’s great to have you back”

Putin's humanitarian pardon

President Vladimir Putin pardoned Hubbard on humanitarian grounds after US requests during Trump’s envoy Witkoff’s Moscow visit.

Trump's role in release

US President Donald Trump asked Putin to release Hubbard during a phone call the previous week, stating the US did not need to exchange anyone for his return.

Hubbard's detention reasons

Hubbard was detained about two months after Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, accused of signing a contract with Ukrainian forces and fighting alongside them.

Legal outcome in Russia

A Russian court sentenced Hubbard in 2024 to nearly seven years in prison following closed proceedings, though his legal team disputed the allegations.

Hubbard's background

Hubbard grew up in Michigan, served in the US Air Force and National Guard, and developed sympathy for Russia after joining the Russian Orthodox Church in Japan.

Diplomatic context

The release occurred during US special envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Russia for talks on ending the Ukraine war, with Putin describing Hubbard’s return as humanitarian.

“Witkoff thanked Putin for the release during their televised meeting, describing the Russian president as a humanitarian and saying Hubbard was returning to his family.”

Humanitarian significance

Hubbard’s case highlighted his age, the disputed military involvement, and the US administration’s designation of him as wrongfully detained.

What happens next

Hubbard begins his journey home after being handed over to US envoy Witkoff at Pulkovo Airport, with Russia and the US continuing diplomatic efforts to end the Ukraine war.