New Delhi, Oct. 21 -- Russia has released Stephen James Hubbard, a 74-year-old retired American teacher who was jailed on charges of fighting as a mercenary for Ukraine, after nearly two years in detention and a prison sentence of almost seven years. His release came amid renewed diplomatic engagement between Washington and Moscow over the war in Ukraine.

US President Donald Trump said he had asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to release Hubbard during a phone call the previous week.

Trump said the United States did not have to release anyone in exchange for his return.

"Welcome home, Stephen, it's great to have you back," Trump said in a post on Truth Social.

Hubbard's release coincided with a visit to Russia by US special envoy ...