US Marine Robert Gilman Freed From Russian Custody After Four Years

Former US Marine Robert Gilman is on his way home after being released by Russia, ending a 1,666-day detention that his family and US officials say was wrongful and abusive. Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey confirmed the release, calling it a "good day" while noting the toll the ordeal has taken on Gilman's health.

Gilman, a 32-year-old teacher from Lowell, Massachusetts, was detained in 2022 on charges of beating a police officer. He was later convicted on additional charges, including assaulting prison staff, with his sentence extended to 10 years. His family and the State Department have maintained that the charges were not backed by evidence.

Senator Markey said Gilman's condition deteriorated severely during his detention, describing physical torture, forced medication, and provocations by Russian authorities. Reports indicate Gilman had been in a "dissociative stupor" for 47 days and was on a feeding tube while handcuffed to a hospital bed before his release.

Gilman will now receive medical and psychological treatment at a military hospital in Texas. His father, Vlad, is already in San Antonio awaiting his arrival. Gilman's sister, Lexie Hudson, credited President Donald Trump and Senator Markey for securing his release, saying there was "no other reason that Robert is alive today."

Markey emphasized that bipartisan efforts led to Gilman's freedom but stressed that pressure on Russia must continue, noting that other Americans remain detained in the country.