US Marine veteran Robert Gilman arrives in US after release from detention in Russia

US Marine Veteran Robert Gilman Freed After Russian Detention

Qwenews.com – US Marine veteran Robert Gilman has returned to American soil after being released from Russian custody. The 32-year-old veteran arrived in the United States on Tuesday following his freedom, which was granted on humanitarian grounds. His release came after mounting concerns about his deteriorating health, with reports indicating he was near death due to physical and mental abuse during his imprisonment. At the time of his release, Gilman could speak but struggled to walk.

President Trump announced that he personally spoke with Gilman upon the veteran’s arrival. According to the President, Gilman reportedly requested a burger immediately after landing. Trump also confirmed he had conversations with Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding the case, and Putin ultimately granted a pardon for the Marine veteran.

“After my discussions with President Vladimir Putin, Russia has agreed to release him, very much on a Humanitarian Basis,” Trump wrote in a Truth Social post Tuesday.

The President emphasized that Russia did not require any exchange for Gilman’s freedom. Kirill Dmitriev, a Kremlin envoy, corroborated the humanitarian nature of the decision. The veteran was transported back to the United States aboard a specialized medical jet. His mother, who had traveled to Russia specifically to visit him during his detention, accompanied him on the return flight.

Arrival and Medical Evaluation

When Gilman reached Washington Dulles International Airport, he was greeted by Steve Witkoff and Seb Gorka. Witkoff expressed his honor in welcoming the veteran home after his lengthy imprisonment abroad.

“Tonight, I had the profound privilege of welcoming Robert Gilman home to the United States after more than four years of detention in Russia,” Witkoff said in a post on X.

Gorka noted that Gilman was served cheeseburgers and milkshakes upon his arrival. Sources indicated the veteran would be transported to a military hospital in San Antonio, Texas, for comprehensive medical and psychological evaluation. Eric Lebson of Global Reach stated it remains too early to determine Gilman’s long-term prognosis following his release.

Arrest Background and Family Response

Gilman was taken into custody in January 2022 following an incident involving a police officer. Russian authorities claimed he was intoxicated during a scuffle with law enforcement. Lebson offered a different perspective, explaining that Gilman was struck by officers, became ill, and inadvertently kicked the officer in response. He subsequently received a four-and-a-half-year sentence.

Sister Lexie Hudson credited President Trump with saving her brother’s life. She also extended her gratitude to Democratic Senator Ed Markey for his role in the case.

“There is no other reason that Robert is alive today other than that President Trump heard about the case and took action,” she said in a statement that also thanked Democratic Sen. Ed Markey.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio welcomed the release but emphasized that the administration continues to seek the return of other Americans held unjustly, including Stephen Hubbard. Gilman joins other former Marines like Trevor Reed and Paul Whelan among those detained in Russia. Additional Americans remaining in custody include Andre Khachatoorian, Olga Jezler, Chuck Zimmerman, and David Barnes.

Frequently Asked Questions

When was Robert Gilman arrested in Russia? Gilman was taken into custody in January 2022 following an incident with a police officer while he was in Russia.

How long was Gilman detained? He spent more than four years in Russian detention before his release on Tuesday.

What were the circumstances of his release? Russia granted a humanitarian pardon after President Trump’s discussions with Vladimir Putin. No prisoner exchange was required.

Where is Gilman receiving medical care? He is being transported to a military hospital in San Antonio, Texas, for medical and psychological evaluation.

Who else is still detained in Russia? Other Americans still held include Stephen Hubbard, Trevor Reed, Paul Whelan, Andre Khachatoorian, Olga Jezler, Chuck Zimmerman, and David Barnes.