British court to decide fate of WikiLeaks’ Julian Assange: Extradition or release? | Global News

The fate of WikiLeaks’ founder Julian Assange hangs in the balance as a British court is set to give its final decision on whether he should be extradited to the United States. This decision comes after 13 years of legal battles and detentions for Assange, who faces charges related to the mass leak of secret U.S. documents.

Two judges at the High Court in London will rule on whether the court is satisfied with U.S. assurances that Assange, 52, would not face the death penalty and could rely on the First Amendment right to free speech if he were to stand trial in the U.S. for spying.

Assange’s legal team is preparing for various outcomes, including the possibility of him being extradited, released from jail, or facing further legal battles. His wife, Stella, expressed uncertainty about the outcome, stating, “I have the sense that anything could happen at this stage.”

The U.S. authorities want to put Assange on trial over 18 charges, nearly all under the Espionage Act, for his role in releasing classified U.S. military documents. Supporters of Assange argue that the prosecution is an assault on journalism and free speech.

Regardless of the court’s decision, Stella Assange remains determined to fight for her husband’s liberty. She emphasized the toll that years of legal battles have taken on their family, stating, “This is just not a way to live – it’s so cruel. And I can’t prepare for his extradition – how could I? But if he’s extradited, then I’ll do whatever I can, and our family is going to fight for him until he’s free.”

The outcome of Monday’s ruling will have far-reaching implications for Assange and the future of press freedom. Stay tuned for updates on this developing story.