In a recent conversation, Kieran Ramsey, the Chief Investigator for Global Reach, revealed the distressing ordeal that U.S. Marine Corps veteran Robert Gilman faced while wrongfully detained in Russia. Ramsey called for the immediate release of five other Americans who remain in Russian custody.
Ramsey commended former President Donald Trump for his humanitarian efforts that led to Gilman’s release after he had spent 1,666 days in a Russian prison. “Gilman owes his freedom to President Trump’s leadership, without question,” he stated, emphasizing the collaborative efforts with U.S. officials that ultimately facilitated Gilman’s return.
Gilman was detained in 2022 by Russian authorities after accidentally diverting to Russia during a trip to begin a teaching position in Moldova. As Ramsey outlined, Gilman fell ill during his travels and ended up seeking assistance from the U.S. embassy in Russia. However, things took a turn for the worse when he was apprehended by police, who mistakenly believed he was intoxicated and assaulted him, leading to a series of escalating events.
Ramsey shed light on the brutal treatment Gilman endured in prison, suggesting he faced severe beatings and psychological torment. “In prison, he was provoked, beaten, compelled to exercise, and forced into confrontations. There were even threats directed toward his father back in Boston,” he explained, highlighting the disconcerting psychological tactics employed against Gilman.
When questioned about the validity of threats against Gilman’s family, Ramsey dismissed them as an “utterly nonsensical disinformation campaign.” As of now, Gilman is recuperating in a U.S. hospital with his family, receiving the care he desperately needs, thanks in part to governmental intervention that designated him as an illegal detainee.
Ramsey also pointed out that there are five other Americans, held under circumstances he believes are equally unjust, who have yet to enter discussions about their release. He referenced the Robert Levinson Hostage Takers Accountability Act, highlighting that these individuals meet the criteria set by the legislation.
Among them is Alexander Antonov, a businessman from California, who was detained after transiting through Russia. “His U.S. passport made him an immediate target,” Ramsey noted, indicating the dangers American citizens face in Russia. Currently, Antonov suffers from serious health issues, exacerbated by his time in prison.
Ramsey shared additional stories, including that of David Burns, a Texas man arrested during a custody battle involving his children, and Olga Gezler, a green card holder facing health dilemmas while imprisoned after traveling to care for her sister. Each case presents a grim picture of wrongful detention.
Additionally, Ramsey mentioned the plight of Chuck Zimmerman, who has been imprisoned for over a year under allegations of arms trafficking after being captured in international waters. He stressed that Zimmerman is currently dealing with severe medical issues, including a bleeding ulcer.
Despite the positive outcome for Gilman, Ramsey noted a pressing urgency to maintain advocacy for those still detained. “We have five other families awaiting news about their loved ones,” he remarked, reinforcing the need for continuous awareness and action to push for their release. Ramsey ended by expressing concern about the future, highlighting the ongoing uncertainties for those imprisoned and their families.
The U.S. State Department has been contacted for further comments on these matters.
