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Julian Assange Returns to Australia, Celebrated as Legal Battle Ends

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Canberra/Panjab Post

Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks, received a hero’s welcome upon his return to Australia on Wednesday, marking the conclusion of a 14-year legal saga after pleading guilty to violating US espionage laws.

Assange arrived at Canberra airport aboard a private jet, greeted by a jubilant crowd of supporters and media. He embraced his wife Stella and father before proceeding to the terminal with his legal team, where he made no public statements but was described by Stella Assange as needing time to readjust to freedom.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, a staunch advocate for Assange’s release, spoke warmly of their conversation following the landing, praising Assange for his resilience and acknowledging Australia’s support for its citizens.

Assange’s return marks the end of a tumultuous journey that saw him endure over five years in a British high-security prison and seven years under asylum at the Ecuadorian embassy in London. His legal battles included extradition attempts to Sweden on sexual assault charges and to the US on 18 criminal counts related to his work with classified documents.

In a recent hearing in Saipan, Assange admitted guilt to one count of conspiring to obtain and disclose classified national defense documents, citing his belief in First Amendment protections for journalistic activities. Chief US District Judge Ramona V Manglona accepted his plea, noting no personal victims from Assange’s actions and offering early birthday wishes ahead of his 53rd birthday on July 3.

Assange’s homecoming concludes a chapter that has deeply influenced global discussions on press freedom, sparking debates on government transparency and the rights of whistleblowers. His future plans remain uncertain as he transitions from years of legal battles to a new phase of life back in Australia.

As Assange reintegrates into society, his legacy continues to resonate, shaping ongoing discourse on civil liberties and the role of journalism in democratic societies.

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