Former U.S. Marine Corps veteran Robert Gilman, 32, has been hospitalized in critical condition in Russia after entering a dissociative stupor, according to an advocate for his family. Gilman, detained since 2022, is currently being fed through a nasogastric tube and has been unable to eat independently for 46 days, his advocate Eric Lebson of Global Reach reported on Thursday.
Russian authorities transferred Gilman to a civilian psychiatric ward in Voronezh in late June after medical assessments described his condition as a catatonic-like state. Lebson stated that Gilman’s mother, who traveled to Russia, has been denied access to her son despite a judicial order permitting visitation. The Russian government has not publicly responded to these claims.
The U.S. State Department confirmed it has urged Moscow to release Gilman for urgent medical treatment in the United States. However, Lebson expressed grave concern that Gilman’s condition could deteriorate further, comparing his situation to the case of Otto Warmbier, an American student who died after detention in North Korea. The Trump administration has previously secured the release of several Americans held in Russia, including Marc Fogel and Ksenia Karelina, though as many as 10 Americans remain detained in the country, according to sources familiar with their cases.
Gilman’s case coincides with ongoing discussions within the Trump administration regarding potential negotiations with Russia over the war in Ukraine. These talks have faced delays amid escalating tensions with Iran and broader Middle East conflicts. The administration has not indicated whether Gilman’s detention will influence its diplomatic strategy.
Advocacy groups and family members allege mistreatment
Lebson, representing Gilman’s family, alleged that Russian authorities have subjected him to forced exercise sessions lasting up to 16 hours, harassment, and the administration of psychotropic drugs. He also claimed Gilman was pressured to fight in Ukraine, though these allegations have not been independently verified by CBS News or other outlets. Russian officials have not publicly addressed these claims.
Gilman’s sister and other advocacy groups have echoed concerns about his treatment, stating that his inability to receive proper medical care in Russia has exacerbated his condition. The White House and National Security Council have also called for his immediate release, though no further details on potential diplomatic efforts have been disclosed.
Background on Gilman’s detention
Gilman, a former Marine Corps veteran, was detained in Russia in 2022, though the exact circumstances of his arrest remain unclear. His case has drawn attention as one of the most severe among Americans currently held in Russian custody. The State Department has not provided additional updates on his legal status or any potential negotiations for his release.
As of the latest reports, Gilman remains hospitalized in Voronezh, with no confirmed timeline for his transfer or treatment in the U.S. His family and advocates continue to urge the Trump administration to prioritize his case and secure his release on humanitarian grounds.