Russia releases American prisoner during Putin and Witkoff talks

During a meeting, Putin confirmed that Hubbard is at the St. Petersburg airport and can fly to the U.S. with Witkoff. Trump had previously mentioned discussions with Putin regarding Hubbard's release. The American teacher was arrested in April 2022 in Izium, Ukraine, where he lived with his partner. Russia claimed Hubbard was part of a Ukrainian military unit, a statement he denies. Witkoff was in St. Petersburg for talks with Putin, discussing Hubbard's release and the ongoing war in Ukraine, including potential peace talks involving the U.S., but no concrete steps were announced.