WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange pleads guilty in deal with US that secures his freedom, ends legal fight

Julian Assange, founder of WikiLeaks, pleaded guilty to obtaining and publishing U.S. military secrets, ending a prolonged legal battle over press freedom and national security. The deal, struck in Saipan, allows Assange to return to Australia without U.S. prison time. Assange had been jailed in the UK since 2019, resisting extradition. The plea resolves a Trump-era criminal case and highlights Assange's role in revealing military misconduct. His wife expressed relief, and Assange's supporters celebrate his impending freedom.