In a recent development that has drawn international attention, a Russian court handed down a prison sentence to Stephen Hubbard, a 72-year-old American citizen. The elderly man was accused of participating as a mercenary in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The trial and sentencing of Hubbard raised questions about the treatment of foreign nationals in Russia and the broader implications for international relations.
Sentencing in Moscow
A Russian court in Moscow sentenced Stephen Hubbard, a 72-year-old American citizen, to nearly seven years in prison. The verdict was delivered on a Monday by Judge Alexandra Kovalevskaya at Moscow City Court. Hubbard received a sentence of six years and ten months for his alleged involvement in the Ukrainian conflict. The elderly defendant appeared to have difficulty standing as the sentence was read out.
Charges and Conviction
Hubbard was convicted of “participating as a mercenary in the armed conflict” in Ukraine. The trial was conducted swiftly and largely behind closed doors, limiting public access to the proceedings. Russian authorities accused Hubbard of fighting on behalf of Ukraine against Russian forces.
Detention and Trial Timeline
Hubbard had been in custody since April 2, 2022, a fact that was considered during sentencing. His case only became public knowledge on September 27, when his trial began in Moscow. Russian authorities did not disclose the location or circumstances of Hubbard’s initial detention.
Defendant’s Health Concerns
During court appearances, Hubbard exhibited signs of poor health. He was observed walking slowly and dragging his feet at a hearing before the sentencing. At the prosecutors’ request, the court ordered that the trial be held in secret, without media presence.
Alleged Activities in Ukraine
According to Russian state media, Hubbard had been living in the Ukrainian city of Izyum since 2014. Izyum, located in the northeastern Kharkiv region, was briefly under Russian control following the 2022 invasion. Russian forces were later ousted from the city in September 2022 during a Ukrainian counteroffensive.
Prosecution’s Claims
Prosecutors alleged that Hubbard received payment of at least $1,000 per month to join a Ukrainian territorial defence unit. They claimed he underwent training and was provided with a combat uniform. The prosecution stated that Hubbard actively participated in the armed conflict in Ukraine.
Video Evidence
A video surfaced on pro-Russian YouTube channels in May 2022, during the Russian occupation of Izyum. The footage showed a man identifying himself as Stephen James Hubbard, claiming to be from Big Rapids, Michigan. In the video, he stated that he had come to live in Ukraine in 2014.
Other American Citizens in Russian Custody
On the same day as Hubbard’s sentencing, another U.S. citizen named Robert Gilman was convicted in Russia. Gilman received a sentence of seven years and one month in a strict-regime penal colony. He was found guilty of attacking prison staff and a criminal investigator while already serving time for a previous conviction.
Arrests of Westerners in Russia
Russia has arrested numerous Western citizens in recent years on various charges. These ranged from espionage to petty theft, with some cases related to Moscow’s military actions in Ukraine. One notable case involved Ksenia Karelina, a dual U.S.-Russian citizen, who received a 12-year sentence for donating around $50 to a Ukrainian organization.
Prisoner Exchanges
Recent years saw several high-profile prisoner exchanges between Russia and the United States. A significant swap occurred over the summer, involving Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich and U.S. Marine veteran Paul Whelan. They were exchanged for Russians held in the U.S. and other countries, many with connections to Russian intelligence.
Broader Implications
The cases of Hubbard and other detained foreigners in Russia raised concerns about the treatment of international citizens. These incidents strained diplomatic relations between Russia and Western countries, particularly the United States. The ongoing situation highlighted the complexities of international law and the challenges faced by individuals caught in geopolitical conflicts.
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