Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old American Marine Corps veteran who has been held in Russian custody since 2022, is currently hospitalized in serious condition. Eric Lebson, an advocate for the family with Global Reach, stated that Gilman is being treated in a Russian hospital while in a state described as a "dissociative stupor." According to Lebson, the veteran is currently receiving nutrition through a nasal feeding tube.
Expressing deep concern over the trajectory of the case, Lebson noted that the situation is "far beyond anything we have seen with any other American detained in Russia." He drew a concerning parallel to the case of Otto Warmbier, who died following his detention in North Korea, and emphasized that it is critical for the Russian government to release Gilman immediately so that he can receive necessary emergency medical care.
In response to the deteriorating health of the veteran, a State Department spokesperson confirmed that the Trump administration has repeatedly raised the issue with the Russian government and formally requested his release on humanitarian grounds. The White House stated it is "deeply concerned" about his health and continued detention, and officials intend to monitor the situation closely.
The development occurs as the Trump administration navigates the complexities of potentially restarting negotiations with Moscow regarding the conflict in Ukraine, a process that has slowed amid focus on Middle East tensions and the conflict with Iran. While the administration has previously secured the release of Americans such as Marc Fogel and Ksenia Karelina, sources familiar with the matter believe as many as 10 Americans remain in Russian detention. Previous high-profile releases from Russia include former Marine Paul Whelan, journalist Evan Gershkovich, and WNBA star Brittney Griner.
