US Marine Veteran Robert Gilman Released from Russian Detention

US Marine veteran Robert Gilman has been released from Russian detention after spending over four years in custody. Gilman, a 32-year-old teacher, was arrested in January 2022 in Voronezh, Russia, following allegations of assaulting a police officer while intoxicated, charges his family consistently denied, claiming he was ill and the kick was accidental. His initial sentence of approximately 3.5 to 4.5 years was subsequently extended multiple times for alleged assaults within the prison system, eventually reaching a 10-year term.

His release on August 11, 2026, came after growing international concern over his rapidly deteriorating health. Advocates reported Gilman was in a "dissociative stupor," required a feeding tube, and had endured severe mistreatment, including physical torture and forced medication, leading to a "near-death" condition. Russian President Vladimir Putin granted a humanitarian pardon for Gilman, with U.S. officials confirming no prisoner exchange or concessions were involved.

Upon his release, Gilman was transported via a U.S. State Department plane, accompanied by his mother. He is expected to undergo comprehensive medical and psychological assessment and treatment at a U.S. military hospital in Texas. President Donald Trump announced Gilman's return, stating his release followed discussions with President Putin, while the Trump administration had repeatedly pressed for his release on humanitarian grounds.