Witkoff calls Putin 'compassionate' after hostage release, sparking US backlash

U.S. President Donald Trump's special envoy Steve Witkoff sparked a political firestorm in the United States after thanking Russian President Vladimir Putin and calling him "compassionate" following the release of American Stephen Hubbard, who had been imprisoned in Russia for four years. Witkoff made the remarks during a pre-arranged meeting with Putin in St. Petersburg, where the Russian leader informed him of Hubbard's release. The comments drew sharp criticism from members of Witkoff's own Republican Party, with Senator John Cornyn calling Putin a "ruthless killer" and Representative Don Bacon labeling the remarks "another embarrassment." Vice President JD Vance defended Witkoff, arguing that his job as a diplomat is to bring Americans home and that the release should be celebrated. During the same meeting, Witkoff presented documents outlining approaches for resolving the Ukraine conflict, while Putin said Russia is preparing tankers to ship diesel to the U.S. following Trump's six-month sanctions relief. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the proposals will be reviewed, but noted that much depends on Ukraine's willingness to engage in peace talks.