Kieran Ramsey, chief investigative officer for Global Reach, discussed Robert Gilman’s wrongful detention in Russia and his eventual release in an interview with Fox News Digital. Ramsey also urged the release of five other Americans held in Russia.
Ramsey worked with U.S. officials, securing Gilman’s release after 1,666 days in a Russian prison. President Donald Trump played a key role, pushing for Gilman’s return on humanitarian grounds. “Gilman is home due to President Trump’s leadership,” Ramsey said. Quiet diplomacy involving Steve Witkoff, Secretary Rubio, and the CIA director facilitated Gilman’s release.
Gilman’s ordeal began in 2022 when Russian police arrested him in Voronezh. He diverted there during a trip to Moldova and became ill. Seeking to renew his passport at the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, Russian police mistook him for drunk, which led to his arrest.
While imprisoned, Gilman endured severe treatment, including beatings and psychological torment. Ramsey described the conditions as uniquely harsh, noting how Gilman was provoked, beaten, forced to exercise and fight, and subjected to threats against his family.
After being designated a wrongful detainee, Gilman is now receiving medical care in the U.S. Ramsey emphasized that Global Reach represents five other Americans in similar predicaments. Each case aligns with the Robert Levinson Hostage-Taking and Accountability Act’s criteria. This 2020 act empowers the president to impose sanctions on those responsible for the wrongful detention of U.S. nationals.
Ramsey explained the political complexities surrounding the designation of wrongfully detained status, fearing it might complicate diplomacy with Russia. Nonetheless, he shared the plight of clients like Alexander Antonov, a Californian businessman detained after transitioning through Russia, and David Barnes, a Texas native in prison over child custody issues.
Other detainees include Olga Jezler, a green card holder held over CBD oil charges, Andre Khachatoorian, detained amid transport to Armenia, and Chuck Zimmerman, detained in international waters.
Zimmerman, intercepted by the Russian Navy, was charged with international arms trafficking due to a firearm on his vessel. Ramsey highlighted his deteriorating health and despair, stressing the urgency of U.S. action.
“These families wait for their loved ones’ return. We must keep pressure on, ensuring awareness of these cases and pushing the U.S. government to negotiate their release,” Ramsey stated.
Fox News Digital reached out to the U.S. State Department for further comments.
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