The 14-year legal battle that has kept WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in high-security facilities has finally come to an end, as he was released on Wednesday in the US's Pacific territory of Saipan. Australian Prime Minister, Anthony Albanese, has claimed the victory, thanking his counterparts in the US for their cooperation in freeing an Australian citizen. However, the White House denies any involvement in the decision, with the Department of Justice stating that they were the only ones involved in the case. Despite this, Albanese sees the resolution as a win for Australia's efforts in standing up for its citizens abroad.
Julian Assange Released After 14-Year Legal Battle
Background
Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has been embroiled in a legal battle for 14 years. In 2010, WikiLeaks released classified US military and diplomatic documents, which sparked controversy and international condemnation. Assange was charged by the US with espionage and conspiracy to commit computer intrusion.
For the past seven years, Assange has been holed up in the Ecuadorian embassy in London, where he sought asylum to avoid extradition to the US. In 2019, he was arrested and held in Belmarsh prison.
Release in Saipan
On Wednesday, Assange was released from high-security facilities in the US's Pacific territory of Saipan. The decision to grant him bail came after the UK High Court ruled that he could not be extradited to the US due to concerns about his mental health.
Australian Prime Minister's Role
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese claimed victory in Assange's release, thanking US officials for their cooperation. However, the White House has denied any involvement in the decision, stating that the Department of Justice acted independently.
Fallout
Assange's release has sparked debate and controversy. Some argue that he is a whistleblower and journalist who deserves protection, while others believe that he is a criminal who should be held accountable for his actions. The US government maintains that it has a strong case against Assange and intends to continue pursuing the charges.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why was Julian Assange arrested? Assange was arrested and charged with espionage and conspiracy to commit computer intrusion for releasing classified US military and diplomatic documents.
2. Where was Assange released? Assange was released from high-security facilities in Saipan, a US territory in the Pacific.
3. Who claimed victory in Assange's release? Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese claimed victory, although the White House denies any involvement.
4. What are the charges against Assange? Assange is charged with espionage and conspiracy to commit computer intrusion.
5. What is the US government's stance on Assange's release? The US government maintains that it has a strong case against Assange and intends to continue pursuing the charges.
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