The family of an American released from Russian custody has spoken publicly. CBS News reports that, in an interview after Stephen Hubbard was freed, his son, Father Joseph Coleman, said that his father might have made a mistake in staying in Ukraine when the war began. Hubbard, 74, was arrested by Russian forces in Ukraine in April 2022, according to ABC News, and was released this week as special envoy Steve Witkoff met Vladimir Putin.
The son's comment is notable for its candour. Families of detained people often use public statements to press for release and avoid saying anything that might complicate negotiations. Now that the release has happened, he appears to be speaking more openly about the decision to remain in a war zone. I have only seen the headline and summary, so I do not know his exact words or what his father's reasons were.
The case has also been politically charged. Witkoff was criticised after telling Putin he was a humanitarian for releasing Hubbard, with Senator John Cornyn replying that Putin is a stone cold killer. The release came only hours before Russia launched major missile strikes on Kyiv, and Ukrainian leaders have accused Washington of pressuring Kyiv to accept unfavourable terms.
For the Hubbard family, the end of more than four years of separation is the most important thing. For others, the story is a reminder of the risks of remaining in conflict areas, and governments regularly advise their citizens to leave when fighting begins. Watch for Hubbard's own comments when he is ready to speak, for any details on how the release was arranged and for further developments in the diplomatic talks. The families of other Americans held in Russia are continuing to advocate for their release.
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