Summary
A Russian court has sentenced 72-year-old American Stephen Hubbard to six years and ten months in prison after he was found guilty of fighting as a mercenary for Ukraine. Hubbard, who had moved to Ukraine in 2014, was captured by Russian forces in April 2022 while serving in a territorial defense unit during the ongoing conflict.
Hubbard’s trial was conducted behind closed doors, and he pleaded guilty to the charges against him. Reports indicate that he signed a contract for $1,000 per month with a Ukrainian military unit shortly before his capture. His sentencing comes amid a broader context of tensions between the U.S. and Russia, particularly concerning American citizens involved in the conflict. As of now, Hubbard is one of at least ten U.S. nationals currently imprisoned in Russia, highlighting the precarious situation for Americans who engage in activities related to the Ukraine conflict. The U.S. government has acknowledged awareness of his case but is limited in its ability to comment further due to privacy regulations.
Background on the Case
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Capture and Charges: Stephen Hubbard was captured in Izyum, Ukraine, shortly after the Russian invasion began in February 2022. He was accused of joining a territorial defense unit and was charged with mercenary activities.
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Trial and Sentencing: The trial was held in a Moscow court, which allowed journalists to observe the verdict. Hubbard appeared frail and was escorted into the courtroom in handcuffs, raising concerns about his treatment and the nature of the trial.
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U.S. Response: The U.S. State Department has confirmed that it is aware of the situation involving Hubbard but has refrained from providing detailed comments due to privacy concerns surrounding American citizens abroad. This case underscores the risks faced by individuals, particularly Americans, who participate in foreign conflicts.
American, 72, jailed in Russia for fighting in Ukraine
Oct. 7 / Skynew / Highlights the frailty and vulnerability of Stephen Hubbard during his sentencing, providing a poignant visual of his situation. The closed-door trial raises questions about transparency in the judicial process. “ An American pensioner has been sentenced to nearly seven years in a Russian prison after being convicted of fighting as a mercenary for Ukraine. Stephen...
Russia sentences U.S. citizen to nearly 7 years for fighting for Ukraine
Oct. 7 / The Washington Post / Offers a concise overview of Hubbard's background and the charges against him, emphasizing the timeline of events. It also notes the ambiguity surrounding his transfer to Russia, adding an element of intrigue. “ A Russian court on Monday sentenced 72-year-old American Stephen Hubbard to six years and 10 months in prison after being accused of fighting as a mercenary...
The Supreme Court Itself Is the Blockbuster This Term
Oct. 7 / The New York Times / Lacks relevance to the topic at hand, focusing instead on the Supreme Court's credibility. This diversion from the central issue of Hubbard's sentencing diminishes its value for readers seeking information on the case. “ If it loses its institutional credibility, it will be powerless when it matters most.