WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has been released from detention in the United Kingdom after spending 62 months behind bars. Following a High Court decision in London granting him bail, Assange departed Stansted airport on Monday afternoon, en route to his home country of Australia.
Assange, 52, has agreed to plead guilty to a single charge under US espionage laws, specifically relating to conspiracy to obtain and disclose classified national defense documents. This development comes after extensive global advocacy efforts, involving grassroots organizers, press freedom advocates, and leaders across political spectrums, as acknowledged in a statement by WikiLeaks.
The pending plea deal with the US Department of Justice, although not finalized, is expected to result in Assange being sentenced to time served. The charges stem from the 1917 Espionage Act and concern the unauthorized acquisition and dissemination of sensitive US military and diplomatic materials, notably released by WikiLeaks in 2010.
Amid ongoing legal proceedings, Assange’s case continues to draw attention to issues of press freedom and government accountability, particularly concerning the publication of classified information. Australian officials have expressed a desire for Assange’s swift return, emphasizing the prolonged nature of his legal ordeal.
Julian Assange’s wife, Stella, expressed relief at his impending freedom, underscoring the emotional toll of his prolonged detention and legal battles.
