Russia Relents: Frees American Citizen Stephen Hubbard After Trump Pressure

Russia has freed retired American teacher Stephen Hubbard after more than four years of imprisonment on charges of serving as a Ukraine mercenary. President Trump informed reporters that he requested the release during a call with President Vladimir Putin. U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed the release, and Trump noted that, unlike previous prisoner exchanges, the United States was not required to provide any individuals in return for Hubbard's freedom. The release occurred this Wednesday.