Massachusetts Marine veteran detained in Russia released, returning to United States

LOWELL, Mass. — A Massachusetts Marine veteran who had been detained in Russia since 2022 is on his way home to the United States.

Sen. Ed Markey announced Tuesday morning that Robert Gilman, of Lowell, has been released by the Russian government after 1,666 days.

Markey says his office worked with Gilman’s family for the last two years to free him from custody, noting the veteran was recently diagnosed with a dissociative stupor that has left him unable to interact or eat.

“He was essentially catatonic and also suffered a severe case of pneumonia. We don’t yet know the full details of his current condition or the long-term impact on his recovery,” Markey’s office said in a statement. “I’m grateful that Robert is now on his way back to the United States to receive the life-saving care that he desperately needs.”

Markey blamed Russian authorities for Gilman’s current “near-death” health condition.

“While this news is deeply welcomed, it is long overdue. It is a tragedy that it took Robert’s near-death condition for his case to receive the attention that it required for his release to be negotiated. Throughout his detention, Robert was subjected to physical torture, forced medication, and provocations by Russian authorities. There is no doubt that his treatment by Russian authorities is the reason Robert is in this precarious state today.”

Markey called Gilman’s release a “true testament to the enduring love of family.”

President Donald Trump took to Truth Social to celebrate Gilman’s release, sharing a photo of him draped in an American flag while on his plane ride home.

“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,” Trump revealed in the post.

Trump announced that he spoke with Gilman, who had one request upon landing: a great cheeseburger. The president confirmed he would take care of it.

Gilman’s mother, Nancy, was also among those photographed on the plane.

Gilman is expected to land at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C., on Tuesday night.

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