Russia/Ukraine: Moscow Court Hands American Mercenary 7-Year Sentence Amid Russia-Ukraine Conflict

American Fighter for Ukraine Sentenced to 7 Years in Russian Prison

The trial's secrecy has raised concerns, especially given Hubbard's advanced age and health...

72-year-old American Stephen Hubbard sentenced to 6 years, 10 months in Russian prison for alleged mercenary activities in Ukraine. Hubbard, residing in Ukraine since 2014, admitted guilt; Russia withholds arrest details.

A Russian court has sentenced 72-year-old American citizen Stephen Hubbard to nearly seven years in prison for allegedly serving as a mercenary for Ukraine. This development comes amid rising tensions between Russia and the US, with several Americans detained by Russia in recent times. Hubbard's sentencing is likely to further strain relations between the two nations.

Russia's detention of American citizens has been a point of contention, but there have been some positive developments. Recently, Russia conducted a significant prisoner exchange, resulting in the release of Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, which ultimately led to the return of Russians incarcerated in the US.

In another unrelated case, a US citizen, already serving time for assaulting a police officer, was sentenced to an additional seven years for committing violence while incarcerated by a court in Voronezh, Russia, on October 7. These incidents highlight the complexities and challenges faced by individuals caught in the midst of geopolitical tensions.

The trial's secrecy has raised concerns, especially given Hubbard's advanced age and health considerations. The sentence highlights the tensions between Russia and the US, particularly regarding the conflict in Ukraine. Recently, Russia has detained several Americans, leading to diplomatic efforts for prisoner exchanges.

Details of the Case:

Verdict: 6 years and 10 months imprisonment

Charges: Serving as a mercenary in the armed conflict for Ukraine

Trial: Mostly conducted in secret

Defendant: 72-year-old American citizen, Stephen Hubbard

Hubbard's health appears to be deteriorating, as evident during a recent hearing where he moved slowly and dragged his feet. The court decided to hold the trial in secret, a move requested by prosecutors who claim Hubbard received substantial compensation - at least $1,000 monthly - to join Ukraine's territorial defense unit. Prosecutors also alleged that Hubbard underwent training, was provided with a combat uniform, and actively participated in Ukraine's armed conflict.

This development comes at a tense time between Russia and the US, with several Americans detained by Russia in recent times. The sentence takes into account Hubbard's custody since April 2, 2022. The secrecy surrounding the trial and detention location has sparked concerns about Hubbard's safety and the overall implications for US-Russia relations.

Russian forces initially seized control of Izyum after invading Ukraine but were ultimately driven out in September 2022 during a swift counterattack by Ukrainian forces. The city suffered significant damage, with reports indicating that 80% of its residential buildings were destroyed, leaving residents without power, heating, or water.

Hubbard's case gained public attention recently, with Russian news agencies reporting that he admitted his guilt. However, Russia has not disclosed the circumstances surrounding his arrest, raising concerns about his treatment and well-being. The secrecy surrounding Hubbard's detention and trial has sparked tensions between Russia and the US, particularly given the detainment of several American citizens by Russia in recent times.