American Pensioner Pleads Guilty to Fighting for Ukraine in Russia

American Pensioner Pleads Guilty to Fighting for Ukraine in Russia

On Monday, a 72-year-old American pensioner pleaded guilty in a Moscow court to charges related to his involvement in the conflict in Ukraine. Identified as Stephen James Hubbard by Reuters, he admitted to receiving payment for fighting against Russian forces alongside Ukrainian troops.

Allegations and Charges

According to the prosecution, Hubbard signed a contract in February 2022 with a territorial defense unit in the Ukrainian city of Izyum. He allegedly received a monthly salary of at least $1,000. The indictment further states that Hubbard underwent combat training, received weapons, and “participated in armed conflict.” He was apprehended by Russian authorities in April 2022.

Potential Sentence

The criminal code under which Hubbard has been charged carries a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment.

Hubbard’s Background and Family’s Account

RIA Novosti reported that Hubbard moved to Ukraine in 2014. His sister, Tricia Hubbard Fox, claims he was “kidnapped” by Chechen soldiers nearly three years ago and that they beat him on video. Fox described her brother as a pacifist who is unsuitable for war, emphasizing that he has no military experience or weapons.

Telegram Interview and Embassy Response

In May 2022, a video surfaced on Telegram featuring an interview with a man identifying himself as Stephen James Hubbard. The circumstances surrounding the interview remain unclear. A spokesperson for the United States embassy in Moscow confirmed that an American citizen was in detention but declined to provide further details.

Increased Arrests Amidst Tensions

Hubbard’s arrest is one of a growing number of Americans detained by Russian authorities in recent months. The deteriorating relations between the United States and Russia following Putin’s invasion of Ukraine have strained diplomatic ties and led to heightened tensions.

Other Notable Cases

Earlier this year, 33-year-old Russian-American Ksenia Karelina was sentenced to 12 years in prison for donating $50 to a Ukrainian charity. In a significant prisoner swap deal, American journalist Evan Gershkovich and others were released by Russia in August, though the deal also included the return of a Russian assassin to Moscow.