Russia has released Robert Gilman, an American military veteran who endured more than four years in prison under abusive conditions. Advocates for Gilman reported that his health was in grave danger. He is now en route to a U.S. military hospital in Texas for medical and psychological evaluation and treatment. His family, including his mother who was in Russia trying to see him, has flown to Texas to be with him.
Eric Lebson of Global Reach, an advocacy group working to free American detainees abroad, confirmed this information. President Donald Trump announced via social media that Gilman would arrive at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. Trump also mentioned having spoken with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating the release occurred on humanitarian grounds without any exchange.
Gilman was a teacher, detained since 2022. Initially convicted of assaulting a police officer during a disturbance on a train, he was sentenced to three and a half years. His term was lengthened multiple times following additional charges of attacking prison officials, culminating in a 10-year sentence.
Gilman’s sister, Lexie Hudson, credited President Trump and Senator Ed Markey for helping secure her brother’s release. She expressed outrage over the treatment her brother endured, accusing Russian authorities of targeting him due to his American and Marine status. The Russian Federal Penitentiary Service did not comment on Gilman’s deteriorating health.
The U.S. State Department confirmed Gilman’s release was not part of an exchange. They welcomed the development and hoped it might lead to the release of other Americans unjustly held in Russia. During a 2025 trial in Voronezh, Gilman admitted to charges of assaulting prison guards, explaining he sought to remain at his current prison rather than be transferred.
Before his release, Gilman was hospitalized. His lawyer, Irina Brazhnikova, reported he was admitted to a psychiatric ward due to a severe condition. Neither his legal team nor family were permitted to visit. Lebson indicated Gilman suffered from a dissociative stupor and was handcuffed to a hospital bed, prompting urgent action by the U.S. government.
Senator Markey called for cooperation between Russia and the U.S. to facilitate Gilman’s return. He criticized Russia for Gilman’s declining health and considered the humanitarian release long overdue. Despite high-profile prisoner exchanges in recent years, Gilman was among at least eight American detainees remaining in Russian custody.
The Associated Press reached out to Russian officials for comments regarding Gilman’s release.
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