Russian President Vladimir Putin has released Stephen Hubbard, a retired US schoolteacher, from prison, marking a gesture of goodwill as talks with US envoy Steve Witkoff continue toward planned technical-level discussions involving the US, Russia and Ukraine.
Hubbard, 74, was freed at Trump's request, with Putin citing his poor health as a factor. Trump confirmed the call with Putin, which led to Hubbard's release, and later posted a photo of him on a plane with an American flag. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy supported the US proposal for three-way talks with Russia and the US.
The release comes amid ongoing attacks between Russia and Ukraine, with both sides pledging to resume peace talks. Despite the pledges, Russia and Ukraine continue to exchange attacks, with overnight strikes on Kyiv and Moscow causing injuries. The situation highlights the complex dynamics of the conflict and the challenges in achieving a lasting resolution.