Russia Releases Former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman After Pardon

On August 11, Moscow announced the release of Robert Gilman, a former U.S. Marine who had been imprisoned in Russia since 2022. His release followed a pardon granted by President Vladimir Putin on humanitarian grounds, as confirmed by U.S. officials.

Gilman, 32, was held in a prison in Voronezh, where his health had reportedly deteriorated. He was moved to a civilian emergency hospital in a serious condition prior to his release. U.S. officials stated that he was transported back to the U.S. on a State Department plane, where he was assessed to be walking and talking.

Upon arrival at Washington Dulles Airport, Gilman was expected to be met by U.S. officials who had advocated for his release. Following this, he is likely to be taken to a rehabilitation center in San Antonio, Texas, for further medical care. Gilman had been sentenced to 4.5 years in prison after being accused of assaulting a police officer, a charge his family claims was unfounded.