NewsABC Action News (WFTS) — NewsAugust 11, 2026Hillsborough
Russia releases former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman after four years of detention
Russia has released Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old American military veteran and teacher, following over four years of imprisonment. Gilman is currently being transported to a U.S. military hospital in Texas for medical and psychological evaluation and treatment.
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The release concludes a four-year detention period for a U.S. citizen who faced multiple criminal convictions in Russia and reportedly suffered severe health decline while in custody.
Key Facts
- Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old American military veteran and teacher, was released from Russian custody on Tuesday.
- Gilman had been detained in Russia since 2022.
- Gilman is being transported to a U.S. military hospital in Texas for medical and psychological assessment.
- Gilman was initially sentenced to 3 1/2 years in 2022 for beating a police officer.
- In October 2024, Gilman was sentenced to eight years and one month for assaulting prison staff and an investigator.
- His sentence was extended to 10 years last year following additional convictions for assaulting prison guards.
- Prior to his release, Gilman was reportedly in a 'dissociative stupor' for 47 days.
- At least 8 other Americans remain in Russian custody.
Who's Mentioned
locationTexas“Destination for Gilman's medical treatment.”organizationGlobal Reach“Advocacy group working to free American detainees abroad.”personRobert Gilman“Former U.S. Marine and teacher released from Russian custody.”locationRussia“Country where Gilman was detained.”personEric Lebson“Chief strategy officer of Global Reach.”personEdward Markey“U.S. Senator who advocated for Gilman's release.”