Key Takeaways
- US did not demand anything in return for Stephen Hubbard’s release.
- President Trump claims the release was out of respect for him.
- Witkoff is visiting Russia as part of Trump’s campaign efforts.
US President Donald Trump has praised Russia’s release of US teacher Stephen Hubbard, stating that the US did not have to give anything in return, 'out of respect for President Trump,' according to a source.
During a live update, Trump expressed satisfaction with the release, adding that it was a gesture of goodwill from Russia.
The release comes as Witkoff, a key figure in Trump’s administration, is currently visiting Russia as part of a broader campaign strategy.
Trump is scheduled to begin his day in Washington, hosting a roundtable at the White House at 2:30pm ET, before heading to South Carolina to rally support for Darline Graham, the Republican nominee for US Senate.
Graham is running to secure a full term for her late brother’s seat, and Trump’s visit is aimed at bolstering her campaign efforts.
Trump won South Carolina by a significant margin of almost 18 points in the 2024 election, making it a crucial state for his midterm campaign.
The release of Hubbard is seen as a positive diplomatic gesture, potentially improving relations between the two countries.
Witkoff’s visit is part of a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening ties and addressing mutual interests.
