Russian Court Sentences US Citizen to Six Years in Prison for Fighting for Ukraine, State Media Reports

Washington D.C. – CNN, October 07, 2024

A Moscow court sentenced American citizen Stephen Hubbard, 72, to six years and 10 months in prison on Monday for allegedly fighting as a mercenary for Ukraine, according to Russian state media TASS.

Hubbard, originally from Michigan, was accused of fighting against Russia for monetary compensation and pleaded guilty last month to charges of being a mercenary, according to Russian state media RIA Novosti.

Russian prosecutors alleged that Hubbard fought with Ukraine in the key city of Izyum, after signing a contract for about $1,000 per month, RIA previously reported. He was detained by Russian forces in April 2022.

“Yes, I agree with the charges,” Hubbard told the Moscow City Court in his September plea hearing.

His trial and sentencing took place behind closed doors in the Moscow court.

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