WikiLeaks' Assange Pleads Guilty to Violating US Law

Longstanding Legal Battle Ends with Guilty Plea

Sentence Hearing Set for Time Already Served

London, UK - WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange pleaded guilty on Wednesday to violating United States law, marking the conclusion of a protracted legal battle spanning over a decade.

Assange's plea stems from charges related to his role in the 2010 release of classified military and diplomatic documents through WikiLeaks. A federal grand jury indicted Assange in 2019, accusing him of violating the Espionage Act.

After numerous legal challenges, including an unsuccessful attempt to prevent extradition from the UK, Assange is expected to be sentenced to 62 months in prison at a hearing on the island of Martha's Vineyard. However, he has already served more than 62 months in detention, meaning he could be released immediately.

The conclusion of this legal saga brings closure to a controversial chapter in the history of digital media and freedom of speech. WikiLeaks, known for exposing government secrets, has faced criticism for its actions while simultaneously being praised for promoting transparency.