Family of Marine veteran imprisoned in Russia warns he's near death
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The family of U.S. Marine veteran Robert Gilman, imprisoned in Russia, reports his health is severely deteriorating and he may be near death.
- Gilman was arrested in 2022 for allegedly assaulting a Russian police officer and initially sentenced to four and a half years, which was later extended to a decade.
- His advocate in the U.S., Kieran Ramsey, has been speaking with Stephanie Sy about Gilman's critical condition.
The family of U.S. Marine veteran Robert Gilman, currently imprisoned in Russia, has issued a dire warning that his health is rapidly declining and he may be on the brink of death. This alarming update comes after Gilman was arrested in 2022 on charges of allegedly striking a Russian police officer.
Initially sentenced to four and a half years in prison, Gilman's term was subsequently extended to a decade. His deteriorating condition has prompted urgent calls for attention to his case. Stephanie Sy has been speaking with Kieran Ramsey, Gilman's advocate in the United States, who is working to raise awareness and seek assistance for the imprisoned veteran.
The family's plea highlights the severe risks faced by individuals detained abroad, particularly when their health is compromised. The extended sentence and current health crisis surrounding Robert Gilman underscore the complex and often perilous situations involving U.S. citizens held in foreign correctional facilities.
Originally published by PBS NewsHour. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.