Julian Assange, the founder of WikiLeaks, has been released after 14 years of legal battles, following a plea deal in a US court in Saipan. He was greeted by his wife Stella and returned to Australia, where he expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Anthony Albanese for his support. Stella Assange requested privacy for their family as Julian recuperates after his prolonged imprisonment. She also indicated a future campaign for a presidential pardon. The plea deal has raised concerns among journalists regarding the implications for press freedom, despite Assange's release without further restrictions. Assange himself has yet to make a public statement, opting to speak at a later time.