After more than four years behind bars in Russia, a 74-year-old retired Michigan teacher is finally heading home, thanks to diplomatic efforts by President Donald Trump and his administration.
According to a report from Just the News, Stephen Hubbard, a Michigan native from Big Rapids, was released Wednesday, October 21 after Trump personally appealed to Russian President Vladimir Putin for his freedom.
Hubbard had been detained since 2022 and sentenced to nearly seven years in prison on accusations of fighting as a mercenary in Ukraine, allegations his family has disputed.
U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff confirmed Hubbard’s release during meetings with Putin in St. Petersburg. Trump said the United States did not have to exchange prisoners to secure his freedom.
“Welcome home, Stephen, it’s great to have you back,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. Hubbard’s attorney, Martin De Luca, credited Trump, Witkoff and special envoy Jared Kushner for bringing the Michigan man home.
For Hubbard and his family, the diplomatic breakthrough means something far more important than politics: After four long years, a loved one is finally coming home.
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