Family Says Ex-Marine Falls Unresponsive Following Harsh Treatment in Russian Custody

An advocacy group reports that Robert Gilman, a

An advocacy group reports that Robert Gilman, a 32-year-old former U.S. Marine, has become unresponsive and is currently being nourished via a feeding tube while held in a Russian detention facility. The group, which has been in contact with his family, described his condition as a “dissociative stupor,” raising serious concerns about his physical and mental state.

Gilman, who was taken into custody in Russia in 2022, has been held on charges that his relatives and supporters have long contested. His case has drawn attention from human rights organizations, which have repeatedly called for his release, citing deteriorating health and alleged mistreatment behind bars.

According to the advocacy group, Gilman’s family has grown increasingly alarmed in recent weeks, as his condition has worsened. They say he has lost significant weight and is no longer able to eat normally, prompting medical staff to use a feeding tube. The term “dissociative stupor” suggests a profound psychological withdrawal, often linked to prolonged isolation or trauma.

The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the case

The U.S. State Department has acknowledged the case but has not publicly commented on the latest medical reports. Officials have previously urged American citizens to avoid travel to Russia and have worked through diplomatic channels to secure the release of detained nationals, though such efforts have often stalled amid heightened tensions between Washington and Moscow.

Gilman’s family has appealed to both governments to intervene, emphasizing that his life may be in immediate danger. They have also requested that independent medical observers be allowed to examine him, a request that has so far gone unanswered by Russian authorities.

This case adds to a growing list of Americans detained in Russia, many of whom face harsh prison conditions and limited access to legal or consular support. Advocates argue that Gilman’s treatment exemplifies a broader pattern of using detainees as leverage in geopolitical disputes, leaving individuals like him caught in the crossfire.

As his condition remains critical, his supporters are

As his condition remains critical, his supporters are urging the international community to intensify pressure on Moscow to ensure his safety and permit a neutral medical evaluation. Without swift action, they warn, the consequences could be irreversible.