Senator Edward Markey announces the release of ill Massachusetts resident Robert Gilman from Russia

Washington – Senator Edward Markey released the following statement on the release of Massachusetts resident and former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman.

“Over the past two years, my office has been working closely with the family of Robert Gilman – a Massachusetts resident and former Marine who has been wrongfully detained in Russia on questionable charges for 1,666 days. I am pleased to report that Robert has finally been released by the Russian government and is on his way home to the United States.”

“Approximately 50 days ago, Robert was diagnosed with a dissociative stupor – a condition where he is non-responsive and 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. 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.”

“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.”

“I offer my deepest appreciation to Robert’s family and the team at Global Reach for their relentless advocacy on his behalf. His release today is a true testament to the enduring love of family.”

“We must also never forget that there are still more than five other Americans detained in Russia. I urge the Trump administration to use Robert’s case as motivation to continue to advocate for the release of others wrongfully detained in Russia and around the world.”

“I pray that Robert is able to recover from this nightmare and wish him and his family peace in the difficult days ahead.”

According to a website created to bring awareness to Gilman’s case, he “is a 30-year-old resident of Massachusetts. Born into a family that prized learning and service, he served in the US Marine Corps and also founded “Robert Gilman Just English” to help students in Poland build their English skills to adapt to new environments.”

Gilman was reportedly en route to teach English in Moldova, fell ill while transiting Moscow in late 2021, had his passport and luggage tampered with, and was later allegedly beaten by Russian police during another violent illness episode in January 2022. Prosecutors added escalating charges resulting in a 4.5-year sentence.