Russia Releases Retired American Teacher Stephen Hubbard
Russia has released Stephen Hubbard, a retired American teacher imprisoned for allegedly fighting as a mercenary in Ukraine. The release was confirmed by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff following a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg.
Missoula, MT, October 21, 2026 —
Russia has released Stephen Hubbard, a retired American teacher who had been imprisoned over allegations that he fought as a mercenary in Ukraine, according to a confirmation by U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff.
Witkoff confirmed Hubbard’s release following a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg. The information provided does not specify when the release took place or describe the circumstances of Hubbard’s imprisonment or departure from custody.
The allegation that Hubbard fought as a mercenary is not accompanied by further details in the available summary. It does not state how Hubbard responded to the allegation, what evidence was presented, or whether any court proceedings or formal findings were involved. No information was provided about the length of his imprisonment.
Witkoff’s confirmation establishes that Hubbard was released, but the summary does not include additional statements from U.S. or Russian officials, or details about any arrangements connected to the release. It also does not say where Hubbard is now or whether he has returned to the United States.
The reported meeting between Witkoff and Putin took place in St. Petersburg, according to the summary. No date for the meeting was provided, and no further information was given about its agenda or whether Hubbard’s case was discussed during it.
Further details about the case, the release and Hubbard’s current status were not included in the information available.
Story summarized from the original created by AP via Scripps News Group on www.kpax.com, see more information here.
