Julian Assange, WikiLeaks founder, is released from UK prison after agreeing to a US espionage law plea deal. His extradition saga ends with global support. Netizens celebrate his imminent return to Australia amid calls for further legal resolutions.
Julian Assange, the controversial founder of WikiLeaks, has been freed from Belmarsh's maximum security prison in the UK. His release follows an agreement to plead guilty to breaching US espionage laws, ending a long-standing legal battle. Assange, accused of leaking classified US documents, was arrested in 2019 after seeking refuge in the Ecuadorean embassy in London for several years.
WikiLeaks announced his release, attributing it to a widespread global campaign involving grassroots organizers, press freedom advocates, legislators, and even the United Nations. According to WikiLeaks, negotiations with the US Department of Justice led to a plea deal that includes a 62-month sentence, equivalent to the time Assange spent in UK custody.
Despite his impending release, Assange's legal saga is not over. He still faces a court appearance in a remote US territory. Netizens and supporters have expressed relief and joy over Assange's imminent return to Australia, viewing his release as a victory for freedom of speech and journalistic integrity.
On social media, reactions varied from jubilation to calls for further action, including a presidential pardon in the US to fully absolve Assange. Many emphasized the importance of protecting free speech rights and criticized government interference in journalistic activities. Assange's case has ignited debates globally about the balance between national security concerns and press freedom, highlighting ongoing tensions between governments and whistleblowers.
