Putin orders release of jailed American as he meets Trump envoy for Ukraine talks
Summary
Russian President Vladimir Putin ordered the release of Stephen Hubbard, an American jailed in Russia, during talks with Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, in St. Petersburg. The meeting focused on finding peace in the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, with the release seen as a diplomatic move tied to the discussions.Key Facts
- Stephen Hubbard, a 74-year-old former teacher, was held in Russia for over four years on charges related to fighting for Ukraine.
- President Trump had personally requested Putin to release Hubbard.
- Russia freed Hubbard without asking for a prisoner exchange, which is unusual.
- Steve Witkoff, Trump's envoy, met Putin in St. Petersburg to discuss peace ideas between Russia and Ukraine.
- Witkoff praised Putin and thanked him on behalf of Trump.
- Witkoff’s visit followed a meeting with Ukrainian President Zelenskyy and European leaders in Oslo.
- The US recently lifted sanctions on Russian diesel, a move linked to Trump’s dealings with Putin.
- Relations between Washington and Kyiv have become tense, affecting intelligence sharing and Ukraine’s access to a military-grade satellite network called Starshield.
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