Julian Assange walks free after pleading guilty to US espionage charge in Saipan

Julian Assange has been released after pleading guilty to violating US espionage law in a Saipan court. The plea deal allows the WikiLeaks founder to return to Australia, marking the end of a lengthy legal battle. Assange admitted to conspiring to obtain and disclose classified US national defense documents, citing his belief in the protection of free speech under the First Amendment. The hearing in Saipan concluded with Assange being released without supervision, having already served time in a London prison. The US government's pursuit of Assange, known for exposing sensitive military documents, has sparked debates on press freedom versus criminal behavior. The agreement to hold the hearing in Saipan was reached due to Assange's reluctance to travel to the US mainland and the island's proximity to Australia. Assange's wife expressed relief at the news of his impending freedom, following years of legal challenges and confinement. His return to Australia is imminent, where he will be reunited with his family after a tumultuous period of legal battles and extradition threats.