Washington thanks Putin for pardoning US citizen Robert Gilman
The United States expressed gratitude to Russian President Vladimir Putin for pardoning American citizen Robert Gilman, who spent over four years in Russian prisons. Special envoy Steve Witkoff welcomed Gilman upon his return to U.S. soil, noting the personal involvement of the Russian leader.
Release details
Witkoff posted on X that Gilman, a former U.S. Marine, will now reunite with his family and receive needed medical care. He added that the release is "another proof of exceptional leadership" by President Donald Trump, who continues to push for the return of all detained Americans abroad.
The spokesperson said Secretary of State Marco Rubio, along with Adam Bohl, Sebastian Gorka and Jared Kushner, worked under Trump's direct direction to secure Gilman's freedom, and that President Putin took a personal role in the process.
Background
Gilman was convicted in Russia in 2024 on charges of assaulting security officials, initially sentenced to seven years, later increased to ten with additional accusations. Trump announced his intent to free him in March, and the plan was carried out later.
The United Nations welcomed Russia's decision, calling it a positive humanitarian step amid strained international relations.
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