* Reunites with Family Upon Arrival in Canberra
Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has returned to Australia, bringing an end to his decade-long diplomatic saga. Assange landed in Canberra at 7:30 pm, greeted by family, supporters, and media.
Assange’s Arrival and Reception
As Assange stepped off the plane, he waved to the crowd and hugged his wife, Stella, on the tarmac. Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed him home in a phone call from Parliament, expressing relief over his safe return, which holds significant meaning for his family.
Celebration at East Hotel
Following his arrival, Assange’s family and media gathered at East Hotel in Kingston, where Stella Assange and his legal team addressed the press and celebrated. Stella thanked the government, opposition, public servants, and the Australian people for their unwavering support, acknowledging the extensive efforts behind the scenes and public protests that contributed to his return.
Legal Battle and Gratitude
Assange’s lawyer, Jen Robinson, highlighted the immense effort over 14 years of legal battles and campaigning that led to this moment. She noted Assange’s gratitude towards the Prime Minister, whom he credited with saving his life. Despite the joy of his return, the legal team voiced their frustration over Assange’s need to plead guilty to a conspiracy charge to secure his freedom, considering it a criminalization of journalism.
A Time for Recuperation
Stella Assange, emotional during her speech, emphasized the ordeal Julian has endured, stating he should never have been imprisoned. She conveyed Julian’s gratitude to everyone who supported him and noted that he now needs time to recuperate.
Conclusion of US Pursuit
Earlier, Assange pleaded guilty to a conspiracy charge with a sentence of “time already served,” ending the US pursuit that began in 2012 over the publication of classified US military intelligence. Prime Minister Albanese remarked on the prolonged nature of Assange’s case, regardless of differing opinions about him, and praised the patient diplomacy that facilitated his return.
Outside the East Hotel, the mood was jubilant as supporters gathered to celebrate Assange’s return to Australia.
Assange Receives $500,000 Bitcoin Donation
WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange has received a significant Bitcoin donation of approximately $500,000 as he officially becomes a free man. Assange, who has raised nearly $1 million in combined crypto and fiat currencies this week, landed in Canberra, Australia, on June 26, 2024, after pleading guilty to espionage charges in a deal with the U.S. government.
Assange’s Release and Financial Support
Assange’s release followed a plea agreement that accounted for his five years in a London prison as time served. Shortly after the news broke, his wife, Stella Assange, launched an emergency appeal on social media to cover the costs of his private jet from the UK, amounting to $520,000. This appeal included a British crowdfunding site and crypto wallets for various cryptocurrencies.
Significant Bitcoin Donation
One anonymous donor contributed 8.07 Bitcoin, worth about $498,000 at current prices, which nearly covers the cost of the private flight. Other donations ranged from small amounts to several hundred dollars. Fiat currency donations have reached approximately $490,000 from over 8,000 donors. Any surplus funds will go towards Assange’s recovery and well-being.
Assange’s Legal Battle and Return
Assange, 52, had been detained in London’s Belmarsh Prison since 2019, following his removal from the Ecuadorian embassy where he had sought asylum in 2012. His plea deal in a U.S. federal court in Saipan included one count of conspiracy. The Australian government, which had been lobbying for his return, organized but did not finance his private flight.
Prime Minister’s Welcome
Upon Assange’s arrival in Canberra, Prime Minister Anthony Albanese welcomed him, expressing relief over his safe return and emphasizing the significance of this moment for Assange’s family. The Prime Minister’s phone call with Assange marked their first discussion and focused on his health and well-being.
Future Uncertain for WikiLeaks
While it remains unclear whether Assange will resume his work with WikiLeaks, his return to Australia has been met with widespread support from his family and followers. The timing of his release and future activities may have broader implications, particularly with upcoming political events.
This development concludes a decade-long saga marked by intense legal battles, international diplomacy, and public advocacy for Assange’s freedom.
Source and video – Julian Assange reunites with family after he arrives in Canberra – ABC News
