Former Marine Robert Gilman’s release from Russian captivity marks a significant development in U.S. hostage diplomacy. President Donald Trump secured his release without engaging in a prisoner swap, highlighting changes in negotiating tactics.

After being wrongfully detained for 1,666 days, Gilman returned to American soil on Wednesday, following his arrest on January 17, 2022, in Voronezh, Russia. Initially sentenced to ten years, Gilman’s release was granted on humanitarian grounds. President Trump announced his return, noting that Gilman had only one request upon arrival: a cheeseburger.

Deputy Assistant Sebastian Gorka shared a video of Gilman’s aircraft landing at Andrews Air Force Base, and described how Steve Witkoff, U.S. special envoy to the Middle East, greeted Gilman with cheeseburgers and milkshakes as promised by Trump.

Witkoff called it a special night, emphasizing the commitment to bringing Americans home. Gilman, described as a patriot and former Marine, rejoins his family, ready to receive necessary medical care.

Previously, Gilman faced escalating legal issues in Russia, including an assault conviction in 2022 and further charges while in custody. Despite this, the U.S. State Department labeled him a wrongful detainee.

Gilman’s release follows the previous detentions of Marines Paul Whelan and Trevor Reed in Russia, both of whom eventually returned home after prisoner exchanges. In Gilman’s case, no such swap occurred. Trump acknowledged Russia’s decision to release Gilman on humanitarian grounds, emphasizing no exchange was required.

The release also enables Gilman to reunite with his mother, Nancy, and family members. His arrival marks another instance of President Trump’s efforts to bring detained Americans back without concessions.