Former Marine held in Russia for more than 4 years is back in the U.S.

Former U.S. Marine Robert Gilman released from jail in Russia

A former U.S. Marine who spent more than four years in a Russian prison and is believed to be seriously ill was back in the United States Tuesday night, a White House official said.

U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff said on X that he had the “profound privilege” of welcoming Robert Gilman, 32, home. He praised President Donald Trump for his release.

“He can now finally return to his family and receive the medical care he needs,” Witkoff said.

Trump earlier announced the release on Truth Social, saying Gilman was freed after he discussed the case with Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump said Gilman, a teacher, was released “very much on a Humanitarian Basis,” with no exchange of prisoners having taken place. He was expected to land at Andrews Air Force Base in Washington, D.C.