Robert Gilman, an American military veteran, was released from a Russian prison after more than four years in detention. The charges were disputed, and he experienced severe conditions, leading to fears for his life. Gilman is now en route to a U.S. military hospital in Texas for medical and psychological assessment.
Eric Lebson, of Global Reach, stated that Gilman’s family, including his mother, has traveled to Texas to support him. President Donald Trump announced on social media that Gilman would arrive at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland. Trump mentioned speaking with Russian President Vladimir Putin prior to Gilman’s release, noting that the release occurred for humanitarian reasons without any exchange being made.
Initially, Gilman, a 32-year-old teacher, was sentenced to three and a half years for allegedly assaulting a police officer. Over time, further charges of attacking prison personnel led to increasing his sentence to ten years. Gilman’s family has always contested the charges.
Gilman’s sister, Lexie Hudson, praised Trump and U.S. Senator Ed Markey from Massachusetts for their efforts in negotiating Gilman’s release. Hudson criticized the treatment her brother received from Russian authorities and expressed gratitude for the support from U.S. officials.
“The Russians treated my brother so badly,” said Hudson.
Concerns are raised about the frequent arrests of Americans in Russia, potentially as leverage for negotiating the release of Russians held abroad. The State Department confirmed Gilman’s release on humanitarian grounds, disconnected from any prisoner exchange.
During a trial in December 2025, Gilman pled guilty to charges of assaulting prison guards, reportedly to prevent transfer to another facility. His lawyer, Irina Brazhnikova, reported that Gilman was hospitalized in a psychiatric ward and was in poor health.
Hospital reports described his condition as critical, prompting U.S. intervention. Markey advocated for Gilman’s release, blaming Russian authorities for his deteriorating health.