Russian Prosecutors Demand 7-Year Sentence for American Fighting in Ukraine

Photo : AP

Prosecutors in Russia have requested a seven-year prison sentence for Stephen Hubbard, a 72-year-old U.S. citizen accused of fighting as a mercenary for Ukraine against Russian forces. They cited Hubbard's admission of guilt and age, suggesting he should serve his sentence in a maximum-security penal colony.

In Russia, participating in mercenary activities is a criminal offense that carries penalties ranging from seven to fifteen years in prison. Authorities allege that Hubbard signed a contract with the Ukrainian military after Russia initiated its military operation in Ukraine in February 2022, with a promise of at least $1,000 for his involvement.

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Hubbard reportedly underwent military training, received a personal firearm, and actively participated in combat with the Ukrainian military until his detention by Russian forces in April 2022.

The U.S. Embassy in Moscow confirmed awareness of Hubbard’s arrest but refrained from providing further details due to privacy regulations.

The legal environment in Russia is notoriously harsh, with over 99% of defendants facing convictions. Additionally, prosecutors have the authority to appeal sentences they consider too lenient.

In recent years, the arrest of Americans in Russia has become more frequent, raising concerns that U.S. nationals may be targeted for detention. Analysts speculate that Russia could be using these arrests as leverage in negotiations aimed at securing the release of Russians imprisoned in the U.S. and Europe.

In August, the U.S. and Russia completed their largest prisoner exchange since the collapse of the Soviet Union, involving 24 individuals after lengthy negotiations, which included concessions from European nations that freed Russians in their custody. Despite this exchange, several U.S. citizens remain incarcerated in Russia.

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