U.S. Marine vet, detained in Russia since 2022, hospitalized in serious condition

Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old U.S. Marine veteran detained in Russia since 2022, is hospitalized in serious condition, according to his family's advocate. Eric Lebson of Global Reach described Gilman as being in a "dissociative stupor" and fed through a nasal tube. Lebson alleges Russian authorities have subjected Gilman to severe mistreatment, including up to 16-hour forced exercise sessions and the administration of psychotropic drugs. He also claims Gilman was pressured to fight in Ukraine.

Lebson expressed grave concern, stating, "The situation with Robert is far beyond anything we have seen with any other American detained in Russia." He urged the Trump administration to push for Gilman's immediate release on humanitarian grounds, fearing his fate could mirror that of Otto Warmbier, an American detained in North Korea who died shortly after his release. "It is urgent that the Russians release Robert now so the U.S. can get him the emergency medical care he needs," Lebson said.

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The situation with Robert is far beyond anything we have seen with any other American detained in Russia.

Gilman's case emerges as the Trump administration considers restarting negotiations with Moscow regarding the war in Ukraine. These efforts have reportedly slowed due to the administration's focus on escalating tensions with Iran and broader Middle East conflicts. The U.S. has previously secured the release of several Americans from Russian custody, including teacher Marc Fogel and dual citizen Ksenia Karelina. However, sources indicate that as many as 10 Americans may still be detained in Russia. Other notable Americans freed from Russian detention in recent years include former Marine Paul Whelan, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, and WNBA star Brittney Griner.

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It is urgent that the Russians release Robert now so the U.S. can get him the emergency medical care he needs.