WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is set to plead guilty to violating US espionage laws, ending his legal battle and allowing him to return to Australia. The 52-year-old Assange will admit to a single charge of conspiring to obtain and disclose classified US national defense documents, resulting in a sentence of 62 months, taking into account time already served. His release follows a global campaign involving various organizations and UN support.
- No additional prison time expected, credit for time served
- Assange to return home to Australia post-court proceedings
- Charges triggered backlash from supporters and press freedom advocates
- Assange seen in a video signing paperwork before departing on a private jet
- Australian government and Assange’s lawyer yet to comment
In 2010, WikiLeaks released classified US military documents, leading to Assange’s indictment under the Espionage Act. The case stemmed from Chelsea Manning’s leaks, including the controversial Apache helicopter attack video. The long legal saga began with his 2010 arrest and subsequent asylum in the Ecuadorian embassy, culminating in his 2019 arrest and ongoing imprisonment.
Global outcry and concerns about press freedom have surrounded Assange’s case, with Australian leadership calling for his release. His imprisonment in Belmarsh prison for nearly five years highlights the contentious debate around whistleblowing and national security. Despite the legal hurdles, Assange is looking forward to reuniting with his family in Australia.