The standalone decision on whether Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, will be extradited to the United States is anticipated in March. The update comes via the WikiLeaks page on the social network X. The message signals a final determination on the appeal related to the extradition request as the calendar turns to spring.
In the lead-up to that March verdict, Assange filed an Objection to extradition from the United Kingdom to the United States. Gareth Peirce, a senior partner at Birnberg Peirce & Partners who represents Assange, explained that two appeals have been lodged with the UK Supreme Court to challenge the extradition. The court now faces the task of deciding whether to hear these objections and move forward with the proceedings.
Assange is known for founding WikiLeaks and for publishing secret and confidential materials from governments around the world, including information related to the United States. He sought refuge at the Ecuadorian embassy for several years, remaining there until 2019. In 2022, the UK Home Office announced a plan to extradite him to the United States, where he faces a potential lengthy prison sentence totaling 175 years. The case has drawn intense international attention and debate over issues of transparency, national security, and press freedom.
Previously, Assange commented on the actions he would take in the event of an unfavorable outcome in the English courts.