Russia Releases Imprisoned American Teacher Following Personal Appeal
Based on 2 sources
Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired teacher from Michigan, has been released from Russian custody after serving over four years of a prison sentence. Hubbard was captured in Izyum, Ukraine, in April 2022 and later convicted of mercenary activity for allegedly fighting alongside Ukrainian forces. While Russian authorities sentenced him to prison—with reports citing either six years and ten months or seven years—Hubbard’s family and legal counsel maintained he never participated in combat.
The release followed a personal appeal from U.S. President Donald Trump to Russian President Vladimir Putin. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, who is currently engaged in peace talks regarding the Russia-Ukraine war, facilitated the return. The White House stated that no prisoner exchange or concessions were required for the release. Hubbard’s son, the Rev. Joseph Coleman, described the development as a "gift of mercy" and expressed hope that the act might encourage further reconciliation. Hubbard’s family had previously raised concerns regarding his health and alleged mistreatment during his detention, claims that remain unverified.