Kieran Ramsey, chief investigative officer for Global Reach, discussed the severe conditions faced by U.S. Marine veteran Robert Gilman during his wrongful detention in Russia. He urged for the release of five additional Americans held there. Ramsey praised former President Donald Trump’s efforts in achieving Gilman’s release on humanitarian grounds.
Gilman, detained for 1,666 days, returned to the U.S. It was noted that, due to President Trump’s leadership, a comprehensive diplomatic effort was made to secure Gilman’s release. Key figures involved included special envoy Steve Witkoff, Secretary Marco Rubio, and the CIA director.
Arrested in 2022 in Voronezh, Russia, Gilman’s detention stemmed from an unplanned stopover due to illness on his way to Moldova. Upon becoming ill again en route to the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russian police presumed he was intoxicated, leading to his arrest.
“He never planned to visit Russia. After falling ill, he had to recover in Moscow, where he had family ties,” Ramsey explained.
Gilman endured severe treatment in prison, including beatings and psychological torment. Misinformation about threats to his family was used to exacerbate his distress.
Once classified as a wrongful detainee by the State Department, Gilman received immediate medical care upon his return. However, Global Reach continues to advocate for five others still detained in Russia. Ramsey argues these individuals should also be recognized under the Robert Levinson Hostage-Taking and Accountability Act, which allows for sanctions against those responsible for wrongful detention abroad.
Political challenges in the State Department have hindered their classification as wrongfully detained, potentially affecting negotiations for their release.
Five Detained Americans
Ramsey shared the cases of his five clients, each facing health challenges in Russian prisons.
- Alexander Antonov: An international businessman from California, detained after being targeted on a business trip due to his U.S. nationality. He suffered assault and harassment in prison.
- David Barnes: A Texas native involved in a custody dispute with his ex-wife in Russia. Accused of criminal charges by her, he remains imprisoned for over four years.
- Olga Jezler: A 36-year-old green card holder arrested for carrying CBD oil, detained while tending to her sick sister. She risks severe health complications due to her detention.
- Andre Khachatoorian: Detained while transiting to Armenia with a rifle, despite possessing all necessary paperwork. Suffers from a worsening autoimmune condition.
- Chuck Zimmerman: A Virginia native pursuing a sailing journey, detained in international waters by the Russian Navy. Charged with arms trafficking, he faces serious health issues.
Ramsey emphasized the need for continued advocacy to secure the release of these detainees. The U.S. should maintain pressure to ensure the names and stories of these individuals are known, advocating for their release.
Fox News Digital reached out to the U.S. State Department for comments.