United States Marine veteran Robert Gilman has been released from Russian custody for humanitarian reasons after spending 1,666 days in a Russian prison. Gilman, a U.S. citizen, was arrested on January 17, 2022, in Voronezh and received a 10-year prison sentence. During his imprisonment, he faced harsh and abusive treatment, resulting in a catatonic state, according to his family representative, Kieran Ramsey.
Events Leading to Gilman’s Arrest
In a recent interview, Ramsey discussed the events that unfolded leading to Gilman’s arrest. In November 2021, Gilman was traveling to Moldova but fell violently ill during his journey, forcing a stop in Moscow. While recovering at a relative’s house, he attempted to renew his passport at the U.S. Embassy in January 2022 but fell ill again en route. Russian police approached him, suspecting he was intoxicated. They claimed he assaulted them, resulting in his arrest and subsequent abuse.
U.S. Involvement and Release
The U.S. State Department classified Gilman as a wrongful detainee and confirmed his release was part of an exchange with Russia with no other concessions given. Former President Donald Trump highlighted his involvement in securing Gilman’s release in a post on Truth Social, stating that discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin led to Gilman’s return to the United States. Trump noted that no exchange took place and expressed gratitude for the decision.
“I am proud to announce that American Citizen Robert Gilman, a former United States Marine, is coming HOME!” Trump stated.
Former Marine Gilman was on a return flight home from Russia on August 11, 2026, and reunited with his family, including his mother, Nancy, who joined him on his flight back.
Health Concerns and Family Reactions
Despite his release, concerns about Gilman’s health remain. Ramsey reported that his health had rapidly deteriorated, leaving him in a catatonic state, being fed through a tube. Now back in the United States, he will undergo a full medical assessment at a U.S. military hospital in Texas.
Gilman’s sister, Lexie Hudson, expressed gratitude to former President Trump and Senator Ed Markey for their assistance. “I am so grateful to President Trump for saving my brother’s life,” she said through the nonprofit Global Relief. Both Hudson and Ramsey emphasized the severity of Gilman’s detention and mistreatment by Russian authorities.
Concerns for Other Detainees
Gilman is the third U.S. Marine detained in Russia in recent years, following cases involving Paul Whelan and Trevor Reed, who were later released. The nonprofit Global Relief highlighted that five other Americans remain detained in Russia with deteriorating medical conditions. The organization’s Chief Strategy Officer, Eric Lebson, stressed the need for their release.