Trump Deal Frees Hubbard, Ships Diesel

Russia freed 74‑year‑old American Stephen Hubbard and will ship a diesel tanker to the United States Thursday. He spent four years in a closed‑door Russian prison after a 2024 conviction for fighting with Ukraine’s forces. President Donald Trump posted that Hubbard is “on his way back home” and no concessions were required. Special envoy Steve Witkoff thanked Putin in St. Petersburg, calling him a humanitarian for the release. Deputy Prime Minister Alexander Novak said the tanker carries 40,000 tonnes of diesel, destination undisclosed. Moscow lifted its diesel export ban on Oct. 9 after Ukrainian drone attacks crippled refineries. Trump had promised up to 300,000 tonnes in October, then 500,000 in November and a million thereafter. American diesel averages $6.31 a gallon, a key issue as midterms loom. Witkoff added Russia will send “several” more tankers and large fertilizer supplies soon.