U.S. Marine Veteran Robert Gilman Released from Russian Detention

United States Marine veteran Robert Gilman has been released from Russian custody after spending 1,666 days in prison. His release was granted on humanitarian grounds, as reported by Fox News.

Gilman, a U.S. citizen, was arrested on January 17, 2022, in Voronezh, Russia, initially sentenced to a 10-year term in prison. During his time in detention, he faced harsh treatment that led to a severe decline in his mental and physical health, leaving him in a catatonic state, according to statements from family representative Kieran Ramsey.

Details of Gilman’s Arrest

In a recent interview with Fox News, Ramsey explained the circumstances leading to Gilman’s arrest. Late in 2021, Gilman was traveling to Moldova but had to make an unplanned stop in Moscow due to sudden illness. Ramsey highlighted that Gilman went to recuperate at a relative’s house. In January 2022, after feeling better, he attempted to renew his passport at the U.S. embassy but fell ill on his way. Mistaken for being intoxicated, Gilman was confronted by Russian police, and an altercation led to his arrest.

“The situation has worsened dramatically from that point,” Ramsey noted, referring to the escalation of Gilman’s legal troubles, which began with a train disturbance.

Official Acknowledgment and the Release Process

The U.S. State Department classified Gilman as a wrongful detainee. They confirmed his release involved an exchange with Russia, with no additional concessions provided.

Former President Donald Trump celebrated Gilman’s release through a post on Truth Social. Trump emphasized discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, leading to Gilman’s release on a humanitarian basis, mentioning no exchange took place. He expressed pride in Gilman’s return home to Andrews Air Force Base, Washington, D.C.

Trump shared that Gilman requested a cheeseburger upon his arrival and acknowledged efforts from his team, including Steve Witkoff, Adam Boehler, Sebastian Gorka, Jared Kushner, among others.

Health and Recovery

Ramsey had conveyed concerns about Gilman’s declining health in recent months. He shared fears that Gilman’s condition in a Russian hospital was critical and expressed anxiety that he might not survive.

Gilman was moved to a civilian hospital in Voronezh on June 30. Following his return to the U.S., his full medical assessment will be conducted at a military hospital in Texas, where he will reunite with his family as he begins his recovery.

Pence commended Trump for securing the release of Pastor Ezra Jin from Chinese detention, highlighting similar efforts.

Family’s Gratitude

Gilman’s sister, Lexie Hudson, publicly thanked former President Trump and Senator Ed Markey for their roles in securing Gilman’s release. Hudson credited Trump’s actions as critical in saving her brother’s life.

She also expressed gratitude towards Senator Markey and his staff for their congressional advocacy efforts.

Ramsey and Hudson both emphasized the severity of Gilman’s detention, questioning the motivations behind his treatment.

Global Relief noted that five other wrongfully detained Americans remain in Russian prisons. The organization urged the U.S. Administration to leverage the momentum of Gilman’s release to secure the return of other detained individuals.