Washington/Sydney/Panjab Post
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange is poised to plead guilty to violating US espionage laws, marking a pivotal moment in his 14-year legal battle and clearing the path for his return to Australia. Assange, 52, has agreed to admit guilt to a single charge of conspiring to obtain and release classified US national defense documents, court filings revealed today.
Scheduled for sentencing in Saipan on Wednesday, Assange will receive a 62-month term, effectively covering his time served, as announced by prosecutors. The choice of Saipan, a Pacific island, was strategic due to Assange’s aversion to traveling to the continental United States and its proximity to Australia.
Following his release from Belmarsh prison in the UK on Monday, where he had been bailed by the UK High Court, Assange boarded a private jet, as confirmed by WikiLeaks in a social media statement. The organization credited a global coalition of grassroots activists, press freedom advocates, legislators, and UN leaders for facilitating Assange’s legal resolution.
A video shared by WikiLeaks depicted Assange in casual attire, signing documents before departing on a VistaJet charter flight. The flight’s destination was not disclosed, although flight tracking data indicated a departure toward Bangkok.
Assange’s wife, Stella Assange, expressed profound gratitude on social media, celebrating his imminent return to Australia following the Saipan hearing.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese’s administration, while refraining from direct commentary on ongoing legal matters, reiterated its stance favoring Assange’s release, underscoring the prolonged nature of his case.
Legal representatives for Assange and VistaJet declined immediate requests for comment on specific travel arrangements.
Assange’s plea marks a significant chapter in his high-profile case, which has galvanized global attention and sparked debates on press freedoms and government accountability.
Julian Assange Agrees to US Espionage Charge, Set for Return to Australia

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