Ukrainian detainees describe the harsh treatment of a freed American

Stephen Hubbard, a retired teacher from the United States, spent over four years in Russian custody. He was released this week after a high-level diplomatic meeting. Two Ukrainians who were locked up with him have come forward with detailed accounts of his suffering. They claim the American man was physically and psychologically abused by guards.

Dmytro Khyliuk, a journalist, first saw Hubbard in September 2022. That was at Novozybkov prison, which sits near the border. Khyliuk said the staff singled out Hubbard immediately because of his nationality. During routine checks, officers would search specifically for the American man. They used rude language and mocked him from the very first days. This treatment set the tone for his time behind bars.

Ihor Shyshko, a former Ukrainian soldier, was also in the same facility. He confirmed that Hubbard's status as a foreigner drew constant attention. The prison staff forced him to learn Russian phrases. They made him sing their national anthem and recite the house rules. Hubbard could not read the language, which added to his confusion. Shyshko witnessed guards striking Hubbard on his legs, back, and arms. He also saw them use a stun gun on him.

The physical abuse was only part of the ordeal. Shyshko noted that Hubbard often went without proper meals or medical help. He was kept in freezing temperatures. Shyshko also reported that Hubbard faced sexual humiliation. The prison staff used this to amuse themselves while the American man suffered in silence.

Hubbard was taken by Russian troops in April 2022 in the city of Izyum. He lived there with his Ukrainian partner. Authorities accused him of serving in the Ukrainian army. A court in Moscow later sentenced him to nearly seven years. The two Ukrainian men were waiting for their own trials during this period. Their stories back up the claims made by Hubbard's family about his condition.

Conditions in the jail were poor. Khyliuk described broken windows and severe cold. Detainees would huddle in the bathrooms during outdoor time to stay warm. The situation seemed to get worse as the months passed. Hubbard's health visibly declined. Guards called for the prison doctor more often as the American man weakened.

Later, Hubbard was moved to the Pakino facility. Shyshko said his condition deteriorated further there. His knees and feet showed signs of severe decay. A doctor at the medical center refused to treat him, so Shyshko had to bandage the wounds himself. Hubbard was too weak to move on his own. The daily routine included forced running and stress positions. Shyshko also recalled a handler releasing a dog to bite prisoners.

Khyliuk believes Hubbard was hidden from Red Cross inspectors. The international group said it tries to see everyone it is allowed to visit. They are still in talks with the warring sides. Khyliuk left Russian custody in a prisoner swap in August 2025. He called the system a torture machine. He said the timing of Hubbard's release felt like a political move. Shyshko hopes the people responsible will face justice one day.

The Kremlin let Hubbard go on the same day that Steve Witkoff, a US envoy, met with Vladimir Putin. Witkoff described the Russian leader as a humanitarian. President Donald Trump said he had asked Putin to free Hubbard in a phone call. Khyliuk was happy for Hubbard but criticized the timing. He noted that Hubbard was not fighting in anyone else's war. Shyshko believes evil must be punished.