Robert Gilman Freed from Russian Prison After Near-Death Condition

What Happened

Robert Gilman, a former US Marine from Massachusetts, has been released from Russian custody. His departure from Russia on Tuesday was reportedly approved by President Vladimir Putin on humanitarian grounds. Gilman was traveling on a US State Department plane toward Washington Dulles Airport. US officials reported that he was walking and talking, and appeared to be in good condition, with a team of doctors evaluating him during the flight. His mother was also on board the plane.

Why It Matters

Gilman's release comes after he was reportedly in a life-threatening condition, described as near catatonic and battling a severe case of pneumonia. His sister attributed his survival to President Trump's intervention. Advocacy groups have highlighted that other US citizens remain detained in Russia.

Background

Gilman was arrested in 2022 on charges of kicking a police officer while intoxicated on a train. The family has disputed the charges. Approximately 50 days prior to his release, he was diagnosed with a dissociative stupor, a condition rendering him unresponsive and unable to eat.

Key Facts

• Robert Gilman, a former US Marine from Lowell, Massachusetts, was freed from Russian prison on Tuesday.
• He had been detained since 2022 on disputed charges.
• His release was reportedly approved by Russian President Vladimir Putin on humanitarian grounds.
• Gilman was reported to be in extremely poor health, described as near catatonic and suffering from severe pneumonia.
• He was flown to the US on a State Department plane and was being evaluated by doctors during the flight.
• His sister stated that President Trump's intervention was responsible for saving his life.
• Sen. Ed Markey's office worked with Gilman's family on his release.