Trump hosts Stephen Hubbard at White House after Russian prison release
The president described the retired teacher as a special man who suffered greatly during his four-year detention.
By Michael Collins ·
President Trump met with Stephen Hubbard at the White House on Friday. The meeting took place in the Oval Office, where the president invited reporters to join them. Trump characterized Hubbard as a very special man who suffered greatly during his time in custody.
Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired teacher, spent more than four years in a Russian prison. He was accused of fighting as a mercenary for Ukraine. The American returned home to the United States last week following his release.
The announcement of Hubbard’s release occurred during a meeting between a U.S. special envoy and Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg. In an interview, Hubbard described the moment he learned he was free. He said he heard the news repeatedly before finally believing it. Hubbard stated that certainty only arrived when guards gave him new clothes and led him toward the prison exit.
Trump suggested that Hubbard’s return was linked to his handling of Russian sanctions. The president said he was in the midst of negotiations to secure a long-term hostage. He argued that imposing sanctions during those talks would have prevented Hubbard from coming home. Trump noted that a lot of people criticized his decision not to use sanctions as a bargaining chip.
The White House has not reimposed those sanctions since Hubbard returned. The president indicated there was no formal swap for the detainee. This developing situation continues to draw attention to the diplomatic channels between Washington and Moscow.
Source: CBS News Detroit
