Donald Trump defends not sanctioning Russia in Hubbard talks: "then put sanctions on?"

President Donald Trump welcomed Stephen Hubbard to the Oval Office on Friday, after the retired Michigan teacher’s release from four years in Russian custody. Hubbard had been held on charges of serving as a mercenary in Ukraine and was freed last Wednesday. Trump said he asked Russian President Vladimir Putin directly by phone to release Hubbard and said the U.S. made no concessions in return; he also faulted the Biden administration, saying the release should have come sooner. Before reporters, Trump defended his decision not to impose Russia sanctions while negotiating Hubbard’s freedom, and Hubbard indicated agreement with Trump’s position. About two dozen Americans remain imprisoned in Russia, according to the Foley Foundation.