Russia Releases Ex-US Marine Robert Gilman from Detention

Former US Marine Robert Gilman has been freed from a Russian prison after serving more than four years behind bars, according to statements released by US President Donald Trump on Aug. 11, 2026.

Circumstances of Detention and Release Details

Gilman was initially arrested in January 2022 while traveling by train in Voronezh, located about 550 kilometres (340 miles) south of Moscow, according to an advocacy group representing his family. Russian state media reported at the time that he was detained over an alleged altercation where he kicked a police officer while drunk. However, his father, Vladimir Gilman, wrote in an October 2024 Boston Globe op-ed that the charges were false, stating that his son had fallen ill and accidentally kicked the officer, who was uninjured, dropped the charges, and did not present evidence at trial. Although Gilman started with a four-and-a-half-year prison term, additional time was added following new accusations involving prison assaults.

Ahead of his release, the US government had designated Gilman as wrongfully detained. US Senator Ed Markey, who worked with Gilman’s family, stated that Gilman had suffered a severe case of pneumonia, entered a catatonic state where he was “non-responsive and unable to interact or eat”, and was left in a “near-death” condition, having been “subjected to physical torture, forced medication, and provocations by Russian authorities” during his detention.

Medical Evaluation and Return to the United States

US officials confirmed that Gilman was walking and talking prior to landing, with one official noting that “all things considered, he seems to be in good shape.” Several doctors evaluated his condition during the flight. Once he lands, Gilman will be transported to a medical facility in San Antonio, Texas, for rehabilitation.

President Trump stated on Truth Social that during a phone call with Gilman, the newly freed veteran made one specific request: “A GREAT cheeseburger when he lands.” Trump confirmed he would take care of that.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why was Robert Gilman imprisoned in Russia?

Gilman was arrested in January 2022 after traveling by train and an alleged altercation in Voronezh. He was detained for allegedly kicking a police officer while drunk, and his sentence was later extended as he was charged over alleged assaults while in prison.

Was there a prisoner swap for Robert Gilman’s release?

No. According to President Trump, Vladimir Putin agreed to release Gilman on a humanitarian basis, and no one was freed by the US in exchange for Gilman’s return.

What condition was Gilman in upon his release?

Senator Markey reported that Gilman was in a “near-death” condition after suffering a severe case of pneumonia and entering a catatonic state, having been subjected to physical torture, forced medication, and provocations by Russian authorities.

Where is Gilman receiving medical treatment?

After his arrival, Gilman is to be flown to a rehabilitation centre in San Antonio, Texas, for medical treatment.