Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is set to plead guilty in a deal with US authorities on the island of Saipan in the Northern Mariana Islands. This arrangement will result in his freedom, allowing him to return to his home country of Australia after the plea deal is finalized.
Here are five fascinating facts about the US territory of the Northern Mariana Islands:
1. Closer to Australia: Situated in the Western Pacific, the Northern Mariana Islands are in close proximity to Australia, making it an ideal location for Assange’s plea deal.
2. US Territory: Assange will appear in court in Saipan, the largest island in the archipelago. The 52-year-old has agreed to plead guilty to a single count of conspiracy and is expected to receive a five-year prison sentence.
3. Wartime History: The islands have a rich history, having been colonized by Spain in 1668 and later administered by Japan during World War II before being captured by the United States.
4. Tropical Destination: The Northern Mariana Islands are a popular tourist destination known for activities like surfing and scuba diving, with a tropical climate attracting visitors from around the world.
5. Natural Disasters: The islands are prone to natural disasters, including typhoons and volcanic activity. In 2018, Super Typhoon Yutu caused significant damage to the region.
Despite its remote location, the Northern Mariana Islands offer a unique blend of history, natural beauty, and recreational activities for visitors to explore.
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