London — WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange was absent from the final day of his extradition trial in London on Wednesday, facing potential life imprisonment in the United States for publishing confidential documents.
Assange’s lawyers have argued that the charges are politically motivated and that he should be protected by his right to freedom of information. However, US lawyers have maintained that Assange’s actions endangered informants and set him apart from legitimate media outlets.
If extradited, Assange could face up to 175 years in prison. His supporters have warned that he is at risk of dying in prison due to his deteriorating health.
Assange No-Show
Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, failed to attend the second and final day of his extradition trial in London on Wednesday. His absence was due to an undisclosed illness, according to his lawyer, Edward Fitzgerald.
Appeal Denied
On Wednesday, lawyers representing the United States urged the court to reject Assange’s appeal. Claire Dobbin, Washington’s attorney, argued that the charges against Assange are based on “the rule of law and the evidence.”
US Allegations
The US accuses Assange of publishing over 700,000 confidential documents in 2010, endangering the lives of informants. Dobbin emphasized that Assange’s actions were malicious and set him apart from legitimate media outlets.
Defense Arguments
Assange’s defense team has maintained that the charges are politically motivated and that he should be protected by his right to freedom of information. Fitzgerald described Assange’s actions as “ordinary journalistic practices.”
Previous Ruling Overturned
In January 2021, a British court initially rejected the extradition request from the US. However, the decision was overturned in December 2021, allowing for Assange’s extradition.
Potential Sentence
If extradited, Assange could face up to 175 years in prison in the US. Assange’s supporters have warned that he is at risk of dying in prison due to his deteriorating health.
Future Prospects
If the London court approves Assange’s extradition on Wednesday, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) would be his last hope. Assange may also face an additional hearing in the US if he is not extradited.