WikiLeaks’ Assange to Make First Public Appearance Since Release in Strasbourg, Reports Reuters

Julian Assange to Make First Public Appearance After Release

Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, is preparing for his first public appearance since his release from a British prison. His organization announced that he will provide evidence to the Council of Europe next month.

Assange, aged 53, returned to Australia in June following an agreement that required him to plead guilty to violating U.S. espionage laws, marking the end of a 14-year legal battle in the UK.

His wife, Stella, whom he married during his incarceration in a high-security prison in London, indicated that he needs time to recover both physically and mentally after his lengthy imprisonment. She emphasized that he looks forward to spending time with their two children, whom he had not seen outside of prison.

Assange is scheduled to speak publicly for the first time on October 1, when he will present evidence to the Committee on Legal Affairs and Human Rights of the Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe in Strasbourg.

This appearance follows a PACE report that deemed Assange a political prisoner and urged the UK to investigate potential inhumane treatment he endured.

"It will be an exceptional break from his recovery as the Council of Europe has invited Julian to testify for the Committee’s report regarding his case and its broader implications," Stella Assange stated on social media.