President Donald Trump said a former US Marine held in a Russian prison, whose health was reportedly in extremely poor condition, has been released.
“After my discussions with President Vladimir Putin, Russia has agreed to release him, very much on a Humanitarian Basis,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, adding that no prisoner swap took place.
Robert Gilman, who is from Massachusetts, was arrested in 2022 for allegedly kicking a police officer while aboard a train. He had recently been moved from prison to a civilian hospital in Russia after going into a catatonic-like state.
Gilman was on a flight back to the US accompanied by his mother, doctors, and members of the administration.
The BBC understands Gilman is expected to arrive early on Wednesday morning at a US military hospital in Texas where he will be assessed and treated.
Trump said he spoke to Gilman on the phone, “and he had one request — A GREAT cheeseburger when he lands. I will take care of that!”
“During my Administration, we have prioritised bringing home Americans detained abroad, and have done so at a level never seen before,” Trump added.
Gilman’s health was in “life-threatening condition” after he was subjected to “harsh and abusive treatment”, his family said in a statement.
“The Russians treated my brother so badly. They hurt him for no reason, other than that he was both and American and a Marine,” his sister, Lexi Hudson, said.
“I am so grateful to President Trump for saving my brother’s life,” she added.
Massachusetts Senator Ed Markey also helped secure her brother’s release, she said.
In a statement, Markey said: “Approximately 50 days ago, Robert was diagnosed with a dissociative stupor – a condition where he is non-responsive and unable to interact or eat. ”
