Trump Announces Release Of Former Marine Robert Gilman From Russian Prison

President Trump announced Tuesday that former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman, an American citizen detained in Russia for more than four years, is being released and returning home.

Gilman, 32, was arrested in Voronezh in 2022 on charges of assaulting a police officer, and his sentence was later extended. Following discussions between Trump and President Vladimir Putin, Russia agreed to release him on humanitarian grounds with no prisoner exchange involved.

"After my discussions with President Vladimir Putin, Russia has agreed to release him, very much on a Humanitarian Basis. We appreciate this decision, and the fact that Russia asked for no one in return, No exchange took place," Trump said in a statement.

Gilman was scheduled to arrive Tuesday night at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., with U.S. Representatives and his mother, Nancy. Trump said he had spoken with Gilman, who requested a cheeseburger upon his arrival.

The president credited members of his team including Special Envoy for Peace Missions Steve Witkoff, Special Envoy for Hostage Response Adam Boehler, Senior Director for Counterterrorism Sebastian Gorka and Jared Kushner for their work on the matter.

Trump noted his administration's broader efforts to secure the return of Americans detained abroad, stating that hundreds have been brought home, along with non-Americans held in various countries.

Recent reports indicated Gilman's health had deteriorated significantly while in detention, with advocates noting he had been in serious condition and experienced periods of unresponsiveness. U.S. Officials had pressed for his release citing humanitarian concerns.

Trump said: "Robert Gilman has been reunited with his wonderful mother, Nancy, who is also on the plane with him, and will soon get to see all of his loved ones.... GOD BLESS AMERICA!"