A Russian court has sentenced 72-year-old Stephen James Hubbard, a U.S. citizen, to nearly 7 years in prison for participating as a mercenary in the conflict in Ukraine. Hubbard pleaded guilty in Moscow, acknowledging his involvement in fighting against Russian forces. The case has drawn attention due to the age of the accused and the nature of the charges. Reports indicate that the trial was conducted in secrecy, reflecting the sensitive political context surrounding foreign nationals involved in the ongoing conflict.