U.S. Citizen Pleads Guilty to Mercenary Activity in Russia

Stephen James Hubbard, a 72-year-old American, pled guilty in a Moscow court to charges of mercenary activity. Accused of fighting for Ukraine against Russia since early 2022, he faces seven to 15 years in prison. His sister disputes the charges, describing him as non-military and a pacifist.

Stephen James Hubbard, a U.S. citizen, admitted guilt in a Moscow court on Monday to charges of mercenary activity. He acknowledged receiving payment to fight for Ukraine against Russia, as reported by the RIA state news agency. RIA quoted him saying, 'Yes, I agree with the indictment.'

Hubbard, aged 72, was placed in pre-trial detention last week for six months and could face a prison sentence ranging from seven to 15 years. According to the prosecutor, Hubbard signed a contract with a Ukrainian territorial defense unit in Izyum at the start of the war in February 2022. He was promised $1,000 a month and provided with training and weaponry. Russian soldiers detained him on April 2, as per the prosecutor's statement.

A U.S. embassy spokesperson in Moscow acknowledged Hubbard's detention but declined to comment further. His sister, Patricia Fox, told Reuters that he had no interest in combat and had never shown military inclinations. She described him as 'non-military' and a 'pacifist.' Having moved to Ukraine in 2014, Hubbard previously lived there off a small pension after splitting from his girlfriend. He is among at least 10 Americans currently in Russian custody.

(With inputs from agencies.)