Putin frees US prisoner and claims to be ready for dialogue with Kyiv

The visit of US diplomat Witkoff to St. Petersburg resulted in the release of American prisoner Stephen Hubbard. After discussions with President Putin, Russia indicated it is "in principle" ready to resume talks with Kyiv and Washington, potentially in mid-November. The negotiations will focus on security structures for Russia and Ukraine post-conflict, with the US acting as a mediator. Hubbard, captured in 2022, was released amid claims of mistreatment. Trump stated the release was at his request, linking it to a temporary suspension of sanctions against Russia. Additionally, Russia announced the shipment of diesel to the US, following an agreement with Trump.