U.S. Veteran Released from Russian Imprisonment on Humanitarian Grounds

Robert Gilman, an American military veteran, has been released from a Russian prison where he spent over four years in harsh conditions. The advocacy group Global Reach announced that Gilman is now on his way to a U.S. military hospital in Texas for medical and psychological evaluation. Family members, including his mother, have traveled to Texas to be with him.

Former President Donald Trump shared on social media that he had spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding Gilman’s release, describing it as a humanitarian decision. Trump specified that no exchange was made for Gilman’s release and that Russia asked for nothing in return. Gilman had been detained since 2022, originally receiving a three-and-a-half-year sentence for allegedly assaulting a police officer. His sentence was extended multiple times for various charges, with his term eventually reaching ten years.

Gilman’s sister, Lexie Hudson, expressed gratitude to Trump and U.S. Senator Ed Markey for their efforts leading to her brother’s release. She highlighted the mistreatment Gilman faced because of his American and Marine identity.

The State Department confirmed that Gilman’s release occurred on humanitarian grounds, with no concessions made by the U.S. Government. They also called for the release of other Americans unjustly held in Russia, like Stephen Hubbard.

During a 2025 trial in Voronezh, Gilman was found guilty of assaulting two prison guards. Russian reports indicated that he pleaded guilty, expressing a desire to remain in his current prison rather than being transferred. Prior to his release, Gilman was hospitalized due to a psychiatric condition, exacerbated by his imprisonment. He spent 47 days in a dissociative state, receiving intensive care, including a feeding tube.

Senator Markey criticized Russian authorities for Gilman’s deteriorating health, attributing it to the harsh treatment he received during his detention. At least eight Americans remain in Russian custody, following several prisoner exchanges between the U.S. and Russia.