Washington Welcomes Release of Former U.S. Marine Held in Russia

The Kremlin has released Robert Gilman, a former

The Kremlin has released Robert Gilman, a former U.S. Marine who had been imprisoned in Russia, marking the end of a prolonged diplomatic standoff. The move comes weeks after the Biden administration officially classified his case as wrongful detention, a step that intensified pressure on Moscow to resolve the situation.

Gilman, who had been held since 2019 on charges related to an alleged assault, was transferred to U.S. custody on Thursday. Officials confirmed his departure from Russian soil, though no formal prisoner swap was announced. The release follows quiet negotiations between the two nations, which have seen a series of high-profile detainee exchanges amid deteriorating bilateral ties.

His family, who had campaigned tirelessly for his freedom, expressed relief and gratitude in a statement, thanking U.S. negotiators and the international community for their support. The former Marine’s legal team had long argued that the charges against him were fabricated, and that his detention was politically motivated.

The U.S. State Department welcomed the news, with

The U.S. State Department welcomed the news, with a spokesperson noting that Gilman’s return reflects the administration’s commitment to securing the release of Americans held abroad. While details of the negotiation remain confidential, the breakthrough is seen as a rare positive step in U.S.-Russia relations, which remain fraught over the war in Ukraine and other disputes.

Gilman is expected to reunite with his family stateside, where he will receive medical and psychological support. His release leaves several other Americans still detained in Russia, including journalist Evan Gershkovich and corporate security executive Paul Whelan, whose cases remain a priority for Washington.