U.S. Marine veteran Robert Gilman has returned to the United States after more than 1,660 days of wrongful detention in Russia, arriving in a significantly deteriorated physical and mental state. Gilman, who was released Tuesday, is reportedly "very frail" and required assistance to disembark the plane, according to Kieran Ramsey, a representative for the Gilman family.
Gilman is now heading to a military hospital in Texas for comprehensive medical and psychological treatment. Ramsey described Gilman's time in Russian custody as a "nightmare," alleging that the former Marine was subjected to severe physical and mental abuse, potentially including torture and forced medication. "This was an over 1,600-day nightmare that this man lived through," Ramsey stated in an interview.
Gilman's detention began after he traveled to Russia en route to Moldova and became seriously ill. He was subsequently arrested on charges of assaulting police officers, allegations that have been widely disputed. Senator Ed Markey of Massachusetts, who worked on Gilman's case, also criticized Russia's actions and stated that full details of Gilman's condition are still emerging.
Ramsey suggested that Gilman's case is part of a larger pattern of Russia targeting Americans, particularly former Marines, and imposing additional charges once they are in custody. He referenced the cases of Trevor Reed and Paul Whelan, other former U.S. Marines previously detained in Russia. Ramsey urged for the swift return of at least ten other Americans, five of whom his firm represents, who are reportedly facing similar circumstances abroad. He also credited former President Donald Trump for his role in securing Gilman's release and expressed hope for future efforts to free other detained Americans.