U.S. Vice President JD Vance defended U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff's praise of Russian President Vladimir Putin as a 'humanitarian' after the release of an American hostage. The move followed a missile attack in Kyiv that killed at least one person and injured over 20.
Witkoff, who met with Putin in St. Petersburg on Oct. 21, praised Putin for releasing Stephen Hubbard, an American citizen detained by Russian forces in 2022. The release came as Russia and Ukraine prepared to resume trilateral talks with the U.S.
Vance emphasized the importance of bringing the hostage home to his family, stating that the focus should be on the outcome rather than Witkoff's comments. The incident highlights the complex dynamics of U.S. diplomatic efforts in the conflict.
The attack in Kyiv, which targeted a previously safe area, underscores the ongoing humanitarian and military challenges facing Ukraine. Residents described the devastation, with many struggling to repair damage and resume daily life after the strike.