Gilman's Condition and Advocacy
U.S. Marine veteran Robert Gilman has been hospitalized in Russia since being detained over two years ago. His advocate, Eric Lebson of the organization Global Reach, shared troubling details about Gilman's current state, saying he is in a dissociative stupor and reliant on a nasal feeding tube for sustenance. Lebson also accused Russian authorities of subjecting Gilman to severe mistreatment, including long sessions of forced physical exercise lasting up to 16 hours and administering psychotropic drugs.
Calls for Immediate Release
Lebson is calling on the Trump administration to push for the immediate release of Gilman, emphasizing the need for humanitarian action. Lebson warned that without urgent intervention, Gilman might face a similar outcome. So far, Russian officials have not publicly addressed the claims. The State Department has also not provided a response to inquiries about the case.
The Trump administration is reportedly considering whether to restart diplomatic efforts with Moscow. Such moves have been delayed as attention has shifted toward rising tensions in the Middle East, particularly with Iran. In previous years, the Trump administration successfully secured the release of several Americans detained in Russia, such as teacher Marc Fogel, dual citizen Ksenia Karelina, former Marine Paul Whelan, Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, and WNBA star Brittney Griner through negotiated exchanges.
Current Situation of Detainees
Despite these successful releases, there are still believed to be as many as ten Americans detained in Russia, according to sources familiar with the matter. Gilman's case is particularly alarming, given the severity of the reported conditions he is facing and the lack of official response. Lebson stressed that the situation with Gilman appears to be the worst among all U.S. detainees in Russia, and he is urging international authorities to act swiftly to secure his release and arrange for emergency medical care.