Assange, an Australian, is also a Fox News contributor who could just by mentioning it easily expose Australian crimes & corruption concealed by fake archives [sold by public libraries as genuine] of Rupert Murdoch's first newspapers some brief details of some of which can be viewed at https://rjrbtsrupertsfirstnewspaper.wordpress.com/2016/09/27/rupert-murd... that includes media releases of Australia's financial reporting law enforcement authority [ASC since renamed ASIC] the news articles reporting of which have been erased from publicly accessible records.
The US pursuit of Julian Assange by the US, makes the US look nasty, which it is in the Worlds eye and mine too,
1
Assange published the names of gay people living in Middle Eastern nations where having their identity exposed could lead to their deaths. Fled from a Swedish investigation into accusations of committing several cases of sexual assault. And has worked in support of both the Russian government and President Trump.
Anyone who believes that Assange is some kind of revolutionary, instead of the reactionary he is, is completely uninformed. Assange has far more in common with Anders Breivik then Eugene Debbs.
Anyone who believes that Assange is some kind of revolutionary, instead of the reactionary he is, is completely uninformed. Assange has far more in common with Anders Breivik then Eugene Debbs.
4
Get real. Clinton supporters didn't abandon their candidate because of the leaking of such mundane information. And certainly no Trump supporter was sitting on the fence. This election was set in stone months before any leak or Comey announcement. Stop groveling for excuses. More people nationwide rejected Democrat policy. That's why Trump was elected. Simple as that.
3
Except she won the popular vote by more than3 million.
1
If Manning who committed high treason sufficient to get a 35 year prison term (It's an insult to every service person that he/she was not executed!) by stealing secret information that could have killed many Americans could be pardoned after 7 years. Then it is comical legally, logically and ethically for the US government to prosecute Assange who arguably was quite responsible in 'vetting' the material that he released gradually, did as a member of the press precisely what the New York Times did on numerous occasions. And the fact that some of the material he leaked in recent years that was not complimentary to the "liberal" side of our political class has literally overnight flipped lib-media opinion from valorizing to demonizing him is probably one the most glaring proofs of the complete hypocrisy & bias of our elite media/academic and journalistic talking head pundit class. If there was any "transparency" information that the public crucially needed to decide to rebel against the transnational rape of the middle class in the developed world it was Hillary Clinton telling the organized criminals of Wall Street that she too wanted an "open borders" that would totally unleash their predatory 1%. & the rape allegations are so obviously contrived-encouraged that it amazes even this old cynic. Their intent is either to attack Assange for his leak publishing or for the accusers to gain celebrity for taking down a powerful male for the feminist cause regardless of his quilt.
1
Mr. Assange was never officially charged with the crime of rape in Sweden. There are so far only allegations of rape in a "he said she said" scenario. NYT readers must learn the difference between "charged with committing a crime" by competent authority and allegations of a crime being committed. A very important distinction in general and not only in Mr. Assange's case!
4
The rape allegations always sounded bogus, concocted for nefarious reasons. At first I admired Assange for exposing governmental deceit, but when he came after Hillary I was done with him.
1
Nothing leaked about Clinton was untrue.
1
No, there isn't a "proper war" coming for JA. Just more grandstanding and - he hopes - press, parties and income.
2
Anyone responsible for keeping Hillary Clinton out of the White House should be given a Presidential Medal of Freedom. Seriously.
The Podesta and other e-mails showed a Hillary 180 degrees opposite the image she tried to project to low information voters. And for the record, Mr Assange said the source was not the Russians.
The Podesta and other e-mails showed a Hillary 180 degrees opposite the image she tried to project to low information voters. And for the record, Mr Assange said the source was not the Russians.
4
Based on current law, the only way Assange can be convicted is if he assisted Manning or the Russians in obtaining the leaked information in some manner. He insists he did not and is no different than the Times in publishing information obtained from others. If he is telling the truth, I don't understand why he would prefer to spend the rest of his life in an Ecuadorian embassy in London rather than confront his accusers with what will surely be a highly skilled legal team.
2
Seems that Assange was a hero just a short while ago, with the NYTimes writing nothing but favorable articles on this man out to publish the truth.
Now, when it seems he did not bash Trump, he's claimed to be a bad man.
So, readers and 'journalists,' is one only good if they bash the President? If they bash conservatives? If they only praise and support the agenda of the progressive left? And if not, they are liars perpetrating fake news?
Or can we learn something from this? When we read something on the Internet or hear leaks from 'someone inside the White House' might we NOT publish anything until the facts are in? The investigation completed, if there is one? Or will we continue to spread fake news? I'm asking the NYTimes, as well as the readers.
Now, when it seems he did not bash Trump, he's claimed to be a bad man.
So, readers and 'journalists,' is one only good if they bash the President? If they bash conservatives? If they only praise and support the agenda of the progressive left? And if not, they are liars perpetrating fake news?
Or can we learn something from this? When we read something on the Internet or hear leaks from 'someone inside the White House' might we NOT publish anything until the facts are in? The investigation completed, if there is one? Or will we continue to spread fake news? I'm asking the NYTimes, as well as the readers.
4
Oh no! Assange's most egregious crime appears to have been as seeming accomplice to Russian hacking of the DNC.
Now, he "lost the support" of "those who admired him most" like the N YT.
Next time. Julian, try being an "anonymous leaker" against Trump.
Now, he "lost the support" of "those who admired him most" like the N YT.
Next time. Julian, try being an "anonymous leaker" against Trump.
6
A slanted smear job by the establishment voice, the NY Times, against a truth teller who publishes what our owners would not want us to see. And it is awful stuff, about murder, mayhem, and bad behavior all over the world by the US government. But then again, the Times went all in for the loser Clinton and continues to do so, when other progressives are looking to a new generation of leaders. Outstanding among them is the much maligned by the corrupt DNC mouthpiece Howard Dean, Rep Tulsi Gabbard of Hawaii. I urge anyone to watch videos on YouTube of her town hall meetings, where they will see a responsive and conscientious lawmaker who epitomizes what we need in this country.
8
Very good information and thank you for sharing.
Ramadan Wishes 2017
Ramadan Wishes 2017
Mr. Assange chose to act in keeping with some set of convictions about attacking secrecy, and owning it. Knowing there would be consequences many might find unacceptable, he chose his fate and should find enough satisfaction in that. Only in the cinema does do those who sacrifice themselves come alive again when the camera stops.
What I would like to know is why do the British allow Julian to continue his leaking over British phone wires or radio waves?
What I would like to know is why do the British allow Julian to continue his leaking over British phone wires or radio waves?
1
Ah yes. Julian Assange.
As a lot of people have pointed out, its funny how seldom wikileaks distributes material on the Putin regime. That and I wonder if he actually believes he will ever be beyond the reach of his enemies?
As a lot of people have pointed out, its funny how seldom wikileaks distributes material on the Putin regime. That and I wonder if he actually believes he will ever be beyond the reach of his enemies?
7
He participated in the organized campaign by the Russian government to elect Donald Trump. He leaked only information detrimental to Mrs. Clinton, and none detrimental to any Republicans, and is as guilty as Mr. Putin of interfering in our national election. What more reason is needed to consider this smug and self-righteous man an outlaw? I hope that he is captured and prosecuted.
12
There isn't anything anyone could possibly leak about Trump that he hasn't already said in public himself...and he won doing it. Nor would have any Clinton supporters changed their vote because of the leaking of such mundane information. Therefore, this nonsense about these "leaks" costing Clinton the Presidency is just that...nonsense. Trump was elected because more people nationwide reject the democrats policies. It's really that simple.
1
The racist, sexist, dictatorial, sexual predator goes free, charming. It must be wonderful to be a wealthy white male, one can do whatever one wants with little to no consequences, ever.
22
Are you judge, jury and executioner? Or a USG troll?
It was a "honey trap" as was finally admitted by the "victimized" women, to trap the revealer of official crimes. That is why the USG is so driven to arrest Assange and Snowden. Embarrassment. Embarrassment as being revealed for the incompetent criminals that most of our leaders are.
You Crooked Hillary fans wil be whining about Russia, Comey, anything for the next 50 years.
It was a "honey trap" as was finally admitted by the "victimized" women, to trap the revealer of official crimes. That is why the USG is so driven to arrest Assange and Snowden. Embarrassment. Embarrassment as being revealed for the incompetent criminals that most of our leaders are.
You Crooked Hillary fans wil be whining about Russia, Comey, anything for the next 50 years.
5
@Mass Independent - Sorry, you're mistaken. According the the Swedish prosecutor the charges are still in good standing. Only Assange's refusal to show up in Sweden has caused the issue to stall.
2
Snowden is a totally different case than Assange. For one thing, Snowden has never been accused of being a sexual predator. Snowden was acting on his belief that the information gathering by the US government was illegal and harmful to the US concept of a free nation. Assange seems only to want to catapult his own personal reputation. I am sorry that Obama did not give Snowden the same kind of pass it gave Chelsea Manning.
"I can conclude, based on the evidence, that probable cause for this crime still exists."
Why do people claim Assange has been cleared of the rape charge? The article clearly states the charges are dropped only because he has so far evaded trial.
If he's "innocent," he'll show up in Sweden before the statute of limitations runs out in 2020. Don't count on it.
Why do people claim Assange has been cleared of the rape charge? The article clearly states the charges are dropped only because he has so far evaded trial.
If he's "innocent," he'll show up in Sweden before the statute of limitations runs out in 2020. Don't count on it.
16
This whole affair has been hugely embarrassing to the governments of Sweden, Britain, and the United States.
Sweden never charged Assange with anything. Competent Swedish authorities originally abandoned the case, almost seven years ago, judging the assertions baseless. Higher-up political officials then reopened the inquiry, and they and Interpol started treating Assange like the world's public enemy number 1.
The massive and hugely expensive London police stake-out, and even public threats to break down the Embassy door, were further evidence of the international stitch-up, and of European willingness to be Washington's puppets.
Swedish authorities straight-facedly claimed that they couldn't charge him until they could question him, and that it would be against Swedish law to question him in London. After six years and widespread criticism, they decided that they could question him in London after all. They questioned him six months ago. Still no charges. Now they have tossed in the towel.
This ranks with the forced downing, at Washington's request, of the official presidential airplane of the Bolivian head of state, in hopes of finding Edward Snowden aboard.
Stockholm, London and Washington have all ended up looking like buffoons.
Sweden never charged Assange with anything. Competent Swedish authorities originally abandoned the case, almost seven years ago, judging the assertions baseless. Higher-up political officials then reopened the inquiry, and they and Interpol started treating Assange like the world's public enemy number 1.
The massive and hugely expensive London police stake-out, and even public threats to break down the Embassy door, were further evidence of the international stitch-up, and of European willingness to be Washington's puppets.
Swedish authorities straight-facedly claimed that they couldn't charge him until they could question him, and that it would be against Swedish law to question him in London. After six years and widespread criticism, they decided that they could question him in London after all. They questioned him six months ago. Still no charges. Now they have tossed in the towel.
This ranks with the forced downing, at Washington's request, of the official presidential airplane of the Bolivian head of state, in hopes of finding Edward Snowden aboard.
Stockholm, London and Washington have all ended up looking like buffoons.
10
Probable cause is not convincing evidence. The article says nothing as to why the charges were dropped. When they said "no way forward" it is just as likely to mean that there was insufficient evidence.
1
Erlanger and Anderson write: 'Mr. Assange is now seen by many, including some who once had admired him the most, as an accomplice of the Russian propagandists and Donald J. Trump supporters who had sought to malign Mrs. Clinton.
His advocacy of disclosure has become intertwined with politically motivated leaks and stolen information technology, used by states and criminals alike.'
In the absence of evidence, the second sentence in particular in deeply irresponsible' journalism if not defamation.
His advocacy of disclosure has become intertwined with politically motivated leaks and stolen information technology, used by states and criminals alike.'
In the absence of evidence, the second sentence in particular in deeply irresponsible' journalism if not defamation.
13
And the first sentence is just speculation and wishful thinking.
1
Good. Glad to hear it.
7
So, based on this outcome, can we assume that if you're accused of sexual assault or rape in Sweden, your best bet is to remain uncooperative and/or stay on the lam for about five years and it will all blow over? Shameful.
10
He was not charged after being interviewed.
2
The charge that Assange's accuser, Anna Ardin, was working for the CIA, actually has some basis. She was at least associated with CIA-funded anti-Castro organizations http://www.counterpunch.org/2010/12/03/julian-assange-wanted-by-the-empi... http://www.mcclatchydc.com/news/special-reports/article24603340.html
Ordinarily I would dismiss associations like this, but the rape charges against Assange were so unusual and bizarre that I would ordinarily dismiss them too.
The combination of circumstances does give you pause.
Ordinarily I would dismiss associations like this, but the rape charges against Assange were so unusual and bizarre that I would ordinarily dismiss them too.
The combination of circumstances does give you pause.
12
@Norman - The charges are rape under Swedish law. Which I think should be considered more reliable than your opinion and dubious internet articles.
2
Yikes!
Mom had great faith in her son's innocence. We honor Christine Assange's right to happiness. Christine Assange suffered for seven long years very bravely. She is an icon to all women all over the world! Kudos to Christine Assange who took her son's innocence case to the Ecuador Authorities. Kudos to both the incumbent President and the Ex-President of Ecaudor who have made it to the world history books.
8
My list of icons is not really that short, but I assure you, Assange's mother has never even made the backup list. I have faith in my kids, but if I ever saw them doing something wrong, I would call them on it, not help them get over. Different values, I guess.
8
Pompeo considers Assange a fraud? That is funny when it comes directly from a fraud such as Pompeo.
10
Assange is not motivated by a liking for Russia but by a hate of the USA.
He coldly reckoned that a Trump presidency would pitch the USA into a state of turmoil and weaken it.
It looks he may prove to be right.
He coldly reckoned that a Trump presidency would pitch the USA into a state of turmoil and weaken it.
It looks he may prove to be right.
10
It will take years for my country to regain a descent reputation again after this moral disaster aimed at one of the most important truth-tellers in world history. When time has swept away the slightest memory of today's morally disabled demagogues and warmongers who rule the world, Julian Assange will still be mentioned in enlightened textbooks.
My tweet the other day was well deserved by my formerly respected country, now in decay:
https://twitter.com/LarsSchaff/status/863999617918263296
My tweet the other day was well deserved by my formerly respected country, now in decay:
https://twitter.com/LarsSchaff/status/863999617918263296
9
Mr. Assange's actions have been a doubled-edge sword - while opening up information that should have been known to the public, he's provided a meaningful service; but, at the same time, he's forced governments to push "secrets" deeper into the bowels of their data systems (to say nothing of expanding the scope of what's considered secret.)
While these issues are being discussed, Mr. Assange dramatically undercut his status as a "champion of the people" when he served as the conduit and mouthpiece for Russia's attacks on Hillary Clinton.
While these issues are being discussed, Mr. Assange dramatically undercut his status as a "champion of the people" when he served as the conduit and mouthpiece for Russia's attacks on Hillary Clinton.
5
Mr. Assange calls it a great victory today. While the press reporting this news says legal problems are still there for Assange, and the article also says that Assange acknowledges. But first of all, it is a great victory for all of us who claimed that governments were after political persecutions and one such problem has ended which gives rise to greater speech, the right to distribute the truth and the facts to the public for reasons of transparency of bodies of organizations such as the government departments as well as individuals working for the government that are sworn to run the government in such a way to promote transparencies of activities in government. Second, not only the secretive governments hide transparencies but also persecute those who distribute those transparencies. Human rights activists, freedom of speech activists and those of us who support transparencies in running the government feel betrayed that official duties and official acts should be apparently become transparent within a short span of time (and I do believe that we elect members of the government to quickly and swiftly plan activities and carry out those activities and that should not be shared when the activity is going on) But regardless the press have always provided live coverage when possible and that is the right of the press. I call upon all governments whether it is UK, US, Australia or France to make government actions more transparent and not to persecute by victimization.
5
Do you call for Russia to be more transparent? There are real journalists being persecuted--and murdered--but it's happening in Russia. Assange seems to have no problem with Putin's Russia.
Assange isn't being detained. He's voluntarily holed up at the Ecuadorian Embassy to avoid charges in Sweden.
Assange isn't being detained. He's voluntarily holed up at the Ecuadorian Embassy to avoid charges in Sweden.
7
The Russian state is no less transparent than the US govt.
All you need is lots of money and a really expensive good lawyer to get off.
I have always wondered where this guy's supplies come from.
I have always wondered where this guy's supplies come from.
18
Not true . Arrest him if he has committed a crime the whole thing was a witch hunt. A glorious victory for Assange.
4
Me Cutler, Assange hasn't been cleared by Swedish prosecutors. The inquiry has been suspended because Assange refuses to make himself available to the courts. He will be arrested if he makes himself available.
1
I would believe Wikileaks if they revealed more good things about bad people.
3
Julian Assange, "won't you come out to play?"
3
Could it be that they dropped the charges so that he'd leave the Embassy's protection and open him up to US extradition ?
5
The timing is not curious, bearing in mind that the Swedes had Assange in their net in 2010, cut him loose, then renewed the charges after Eric Holder started investigations. Add:
- a headless FBI
- Brexit
- a sympathetic Trump
- neither of the women deny prior occasions of consensual sex, meaning the charge of "lesser degree rape" would be very hard to prove
- more aware and secure emailing worldwide, meaning fewer Wiki dumps
Together, it appears a wink and nod consensus has been reached by the US, UK, Sweden and Ecuador, that Assange is past useful leak-life. I'm predicting he'll end up down under to lead a, err, low life.
- a headless FBI
- Brexit
- a sympathetic Trump
- neither of the women deny prior occasions of consensual sex, meaning the charge of "lesser degree rape" would be very hard to prove
- more aware and secure emailing worldwide, meaning fewer Wiki dumps
Together, it appears a wink and nod consensus has been reached by the US, UK, Sweden and Ecuador, that Assange is past useful leak-life. I'm predicting he'll end up down under to lead a, err, low life.
2
The proper thing to do now, would be for Assange to take a walk in the park, get arrested, make bail, then approach the Australian Embassy for consular assistance. The Aussies should offer him a one-way, one-time passport home, and a job fixing their internet. By all accounts, that should keep him busy his entire life and his hacking always inside borders.
Just sayin' that's all.
Just sayin' that's all.
4
He'd be better off seeking Russian assistance, like his pal Snowden. He is hated by many Australians and by its government. He's the last guy you'd want poking around your internet!
4
Won't make bail. Flight Risk.
I am dismayed that The New York Times has chosen to feature comments that defend Julian Assange's conduct in the face of accusations of rape from two women. This includes people who flatly refuse to believe that Assange could have committed sexual assault or more fantastically suggest that accusations of rape were part of a Swedish plot to extradite Assange to the United States.
No doubt, many of these same commentors question how American voters could elect a man who deemed himself so important that he could sexually assault attractive women with impunity. Yet Assange has put himself about the law repeatedly, and we are to believe that someone who thinks so highly of himself and his moral crusade couldn't possibly feel entitled to sexually gratify himself with whichever woman he chose?
Through this incident, Assange has revealed his true moral character, and by sticking with this man, his far left supporters reveal their own.
No doubt, many of these same commentors question how American voters could elect a man who deemed himself so important that he could sexually assault attractive women with impunity. Yet Assange has put himself about the law repeatedly, and we are to believe that someone who thinks so highly of himself and his moral crusade couldn't possibly feel entitled to sexually gratify himself with whichever woman he chose?
Through this incident, Assange has revealed his true moral character, and by sticking with this man, his far left supporters reveal their own.
25
Nobody ever said that far-left men are any different from far-right men when it comes to attitudes about women. Most men, no matter what their politics, view women as rewards for attaining celebrity and wealth.
4
Presumption of innocence. Even Iran and Russia have codified this right.
Assange was questioned by Swedish prosecutors in the Ecuadorian embassy. Why the Swedes felt they could not proceed without his physical presence in Sweden is a question only they can answer.
Assange was questioned by Swedish prosecutors in the Ecuadorian embassy. Why the Swedes felt they could not proceed without his physical presence in Sweden is a question only they can answer.
1
Get over it . Not the U.K. Not the USA or Sweden has chargers him . And you are offended ? Get a lawyer and find the evidence and charge him . If you win bravo.
2
Assange and Snowden are both Russian spies as far as I can tell. Their argument that freedom of information is the most virtuous, noble and vital aspects of a healthy democratic society is a complete fraud. These guys are on the payroll of dictators. The fact that mindless leftists fall for their schtick is both laughable, sad, and pathetic.
19
You mean like Trump, Flynn. Pence and Ryan?
Assange is a document man. He publishes what people give him. He turns a light on the underbelly. You may not like what he does but he doesn't make it up. You should be angry about the behavior that he disclosures not the messenger that tells you about it.
Assange is a document man. He publishes what people give him. He turns a light on the underbelly. You may not like what he does but he doesn't make it up. You should be angry about the behavior that he disclosures not the messenger that tells you about it.
Now that you have more free time Mr. Assange, lets Wikileak some dirt on Trump and Russia.
10
Perhaps you can Wikileak Trump's tax returns.
If I were Julian I'd be quaking, quaking in my boots. Trotsky thought he'd find cover in Mexico, this only delayed Stalin's ultimate revenge. No I don't think Sweden handed him a gift by any means.
8
Oh I don't know. Ever have Swedish food?
1
Bravo! The crimes and misdeeds of countries need an airing. Assange, Manning and Snowden are heroes, and need to be lionized, not persecuted. Our mainstream papers, like the NY Times, publish the same material. And imagine the US charging him with espionage! One more shame on this country, 'the shining light on the hill'.
13
@Irwin - Wikileaks published the information for the entire global community to read, unedited. Further, newspapers covered the information with a mind toward not compromising the lives of those in the intelligence community working undercover, while Assange just published everything with no regard to anyone's life being in danger as a result. Sorry, none of the people you apparently idolize in your comment deserve any sort of praise, they're not heroes. And lastly, if you are so unhappy with the U.S., and your cushy existence in the very liberal state of California, go ahead and move please -- maybe Russia or Ecuador would give you a better appreciation of your own country.
13
A very partisan hero, or he would have leaked stuff from the Republicans and the Russians too......
5
The tribal comments here are terrible. A radical thought, it could be that some people don't think of everything as republicans versus democrats?
Wikileaks' mission has been a radical transparency. You can agree with that, or disagree. Do we need secrets to make government work or do we not? But that has nothing to do with your political affiliation. If you believe a radical transparency is good, it doesn't matter if the transparency is about your tribe or the other.
You all like snowden here I am sure? Perhaps you are happy that he is 'safe' in Russia? you know that wikileaks helped him right? Then assange was your champion. When he released information about your tribe's dirty laundry suddenly he became persona non-grata.
Wikileaks releases whatever is passed to them. You do realize that when Trump hemmed and hawed about releasing his taxes, they called for people to send them over so they could release them?
There is nothing partisan about transparency. Is such radical transparency good? That is the question we should be asking. Not complaining that something not so nice (but true) about your tribe was published.
Wikileaks' mission has been a radical transparency. You can agree with that, or disagree. Do we need secrets to make government work or do we not? But that has nothing to do with your political affiliation. If you believe a radical transparency is good, it doesn't matter if the transparency is about your tribe or the other.
You all like snowden here I am sure? Perhaps you are happy that he is 'safe' in Russia? you know that wikileaks helped him right? Then assange was your champion. When he released information about your tribe's dirty laundry suddenly he became persona non-grata.
Wikileaks releases whatever is passed to them. You do realize that when Trump hemmed and hawed about releasing his taxes, they called for people to send them over so they could release them?
There is nothing partisan about transparency. Is such radical transparency good? That is the question we should be asking. Not complaining that something not so nice (but true) about your tribe was published.
16
This "don't shoot the messenger" narrative is fine as far as it goes, but Wikileaks allowed itself to become a pawn of Russian intelligence in the 2016 election when it became clear release of hacked information was going one way only. Just as a bank that launders money is complicit, this behavior deserves at least some circumspection before lionizing the platform.
8
"Publicity is justly commended as a remedy for social and industrial diseases. Sunlight is said to be the best of disinfectants; electric light the most efficient policeman." -- Supreme Court Justice Louis D. Brandeis
source: http://www.brandeis.edu/legacyfund/bio.html
source: http://www.brandeis.edu/legacyfund/bio.html
Assange's goal isn't radical transparency. He sees Russia as a necessary counterweight to the United States, but he has other ties to Russia. In 2010 he considered moving WikiLeaks operations to Moscow. He was outraged at the Panama Papers leaks because they implicated Putin.
If he's truly interested in transparency, where are the hacked documents from Russia? Where are the hacked documents from Trump's campaign? Where are Trump's taxes? Where is there any indication that he's interested in true transparency?
If he's truly interested in transparency, where are the hacked documents from Russia? Where are the hacked documents from Trump's campaign? Where are Trump's taxes? Where is there any indication that he's interested in true transparency?
3
The Swedish prosecutor admits that the evidence for this alleged crime is very strong. So WHY exactly was the case dropped?? Assange has proven to be above the law, yet again.
6
@notfooled - Sweden can't go forward (under their laws) unless Assange shows up in person to face/contest the charges. He is too busy hiding in the Ecuador embassy to make himself available. Read the entire article, everything is there.
9
The case was dropped because its a joke made up by the Swedish government to get Assange in custody for the US government.
4
There was little serious evidence against Assange. You are deluded, and you cannot cite any such evidence.
6
I'm disappointed that the Times put this important story below the digital fold (I haven't seen the print edition) while simultaneously putting a piece about cleaning your home above the fold. Regardless of your views of Assange, he is an important dissident figure in US and world politics Cablegate/Chealse Manning, "Collateral Murder", CIA leaks, the Clinton emails, the last of which been critical in the 2016 US presidential election. Furthermore, he is hated by the US State Department. This is a big story, though he isn't being freed from his UN condemned [1] detention by the UK yet. While I would rate the special consul story as higher importance, this is a close competitor.
[1] http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/nov/30/un-panel-upholds-decisio...
[1] http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2016/nov/30/un-panel-upholds-decisio...
7
@W - What part of the story did you read? You obviously missed much of the information, where the Swedish prosecutor can't go forward because Assange won't agree to be extradited there. Also, she states the evidence points toward the guilt of Assange, not his innocence.
11
My comment was not on his innocence or guilt, but on editorial placement decisions. Wikileaks is an important case that deserves vigorous public debate. This case is highly politicized and Assange has asked for a promise not to be extradited to the US as a condition for going to Sweden (which is where the crime is alleged to have taken place and has jurisdiction). His ask is a reasonable one, but has not been granted. This smacks of interference. If the prosecutor offered that assurance and the British concurred, my opinion of the case would be different. The context this case exists in cannot be divorced from it.
3
@W - The article was under the World News category, which is where it should be. Assange is neither reasonable nor innocent. He can leave the embassy at any time, he chose to be holed up in that embassy. His narcissism and ego demand that he not be held accountable for any of his illegal actions, which is not by any stretch of the imagination, reasonable.
Someone needs to interview Hillary on this.
1
The special prosecutor will be interviewing her shortly.....LOCK HER UP
I couldn't care less whether he likes Hillary or Trump. My concern is that he is a Russian puppet, as is wikileaks itself. Wikileaks has a long history of avoiding any and all information that could tarnish the reputation of Putin and his cronies. In fact, they frequently have used their bully pulpit to try to cover up information about their wrongdoing, as in the Panama Papers afair.
Julian Assange is a Russian Puppet, whatever else he may be. If you think that is perfectly ok as long as he keeps on leaking stuff, then good for you. As for me, I am well aware that half a truth can be just as bad as a lie.
Julian Assange is a Russian Puppet, whatever else he may be. If you think that is perfectly ok as long as he keeps on leaking stuff, then good for you. As for me, I am well aware that half a truth can be just as bad as a lie.
27
Manning is a traitor to his country. Assange is a Russian intelligence asset. The intelligence services of the USA and the UK should take action against these two. Their crimes justify swift and unmerciful punishment.
12
It is action against US and British intel agencies which should be undertaken. The crimes against humanity by these agencies over the past 70 years easily accounts for a death toll in the tens of millions.
2
Do you have the same yardstick for Trump, Pence, Flynn, Ryan and the rest?
2
About time it happened too. Best of luck to you Mr. Assange. Apparently not enough proof to put you in jail. Enjoy your new found freedom!
11
@Queens Grl - Plenty of evidence to put him in jail. But the coward Assange is hiding in the Ecuador embassy until Sweden's statute of limitations runs out in 2020. Read more than the headline, and you'll be better informed.
19
He's not free. Please read the article. The charges haven't been dropped, and they'll be taken up again as soon as Assange has the integrity to leave his hiding place. I suspect he's there through the statute of limitations.
4
It is said but predictable to see many of these comments, lining up in support of a man who openly flaunts the law and is very probably guilty of rape -- according to both the Swedish government and his victims. What is transparently clear in the comments is a reflexive and thoughtless anti-Americanism.
15
Openly flaunts the law? What law is that? And I don't believe that the Swedish government has said that they believe he is guilty of rape.
7
Antoine - in fact they have, it's in the article.
10
Let me know when Assange releases anything damaging to Russia. Until then, stay in the embassy.
25
Commenters here, stop bashing the message because you don't like the messenger. Think of what we probably would NOT know if there were no Assange and Wikileaks. As a few others have said here, our government is adept at lying and keeping the truth from its own citizens, frequently under the grand excuse of "national security."
I am glad there is a Julian Assange and have no interest in whether or not I'd
like to sit down and have a beer with him.
I am glad there is a Julian Assange and have no interest in whether or not I'd
like to sit down and have a beer with him.
35
Yeah......what earth shattering intelligence did we gain from the DNC's emails? Look at OccupyDemocrats today; they have a copy of a letter from our state department saying there were malfunctions of voting machines in PA, MI, WI, and other swing states. Why didn't Assange figure that out? Oh, maybe because it was part of the Russians' stealing our election for Trump.....?
2
What would we not know, exactly? I don't remember very earth-shattering information coming from those leaks.
1
Let's face it, the Swedish allegations looked bogus from the start. What was the evidence? Her word against his? This may have been a Swedish "honey trap," perhaps sponsored by the CIA, to lure him out of the embassy and create the opportunity to extradite him to the U.S. to face charges. And what might those charges be? As this article pointed out, Mr. Assange did much the same things as the NYT and other media outlets do routinely. Sorry that there's no more secrets.
23
Not an admirer of Assange, but five years of investigation into charges intended to diminish reputation in order to keep Assange in line is problematic to say the least.
12
@marymary - That's not the problem. Please read the entire article carefully. Sweden needs the accused, Assange, to show up in court to continue the process. One of the many reasons he continues to hide in the embassy.
11
Thank you for your instructions in how to read. I understand that Sweden has difficulty in obtaining Assange's presence and that he has sought refuge in the Ecuadoran embassy. To hold on to questionable allegations in order to secure that presence is highly problematic.
I am not at all sure, as some are, of Assange's virtue, of any sort. Yet these proceedings defy any notion of good sense.
I am not at all sure, as some are, of Assange's virtue, of any sort. Yet these proceedings defy any notion of good sense.
1
MaryMary, why do you consider the charges questionable? What's your information?
Sweden doesn't allow convictions in abstentia. That's the problem for Swedish prosecutors, not the evidence.
Sweden doesn't allow convictions in abstentia. That's the problem for Swedish prosecutors, not the evidence.
1
Clearly, Assange was so right to avoid at any costs Sweden, a dictatorship well known for arbitrary and corrupt application of laws. Hopefully he can join Snowden in Russia, and finally enjoy freedom and justice in a country that truly stands up to American imperialism.
Don't laugh, some of the comments here are more absurd, and dead serious.
Don't laugh, some of the comments here are more absurd, and dead serious.
10
This appears to be nothing more than a common sense decision by the Swedish prosecutor, but my, the hypocrisy is rife here! How many were for Mr. Assange, and WikiLeaks, until they were against him? Or, the other way around? How many are against giving secrets to other nations if done so by disliked political personalities, but support it if done so by someone who is favored? How many were standing and cheering when a prominent cable news commentator was forced off the air on allegations of sexual assault, but want to look the other way, or call into dispute such charges if leveled against someone who agrees with their world view? Occasionally, it is good to look at oneself in a mirror, and ask what you really believe. The case of Julian Assange appears to be an exceptionally good reason for many to do so.
2
I have stood by Mr Assange since day one, and will continue to do so. Nothing the Times has used to besmirch the man's reputation has ever stuck with me. Yes, he has been accused of over inflating his own importance, however it changes none of the great deeds he has done for exposing truth.
4
Nonsense. I've never changed my position on Assange. If you've changed your position, explain your reasons.
I consider Assange a self-serving narcissist--not unlike Bill O'Reilly.
I consider Assange a self-serving narcissist--not unlike Bill O'Reilly.
3
Those allegations must have been really really serious if the Swedish government just decided to drop it because, more or less, it had been going on for so long. I have never ever heard of that happening before, that the crime of rape has a statute of limitations. I thought that once you were accused of rape you went to stand trial, none of this statue of limitations or charges being dropped?
Those charges must have been really really serious.
Those charges must have been really really serious.
2
@Joseph - You are thinking of U.S. law, which can vary state to state on statutes of limitations. California ended the statute of limitations for rape in 2016. In Sweden there's also a limit, and by Assange's hiding in the embassy, he'll just wait it out to 2020.
6
Excellent news. Do a search for "Julian Assange In The Honey Trap" by Justin Raimondo to see how absurd the charges were in the first place: both women initiated their relationships with Assange, then worked together in an attempt to bring him down when they found out he was two-timing them.
19
The old blame the victims line, eh?
9
Try to be a lotus eater, which means eating knowledge, expanding your mind and improving your critical thinking. Do not be a "flower or a flower pot". Read all the legal transcripts and the political influences moron. The charges have been blown way out of proportion for political reasons.
Feminist lawyer Jill Filipovic writes, "Assange is the target of an international manhunt. One of the crimes he's accused of carries the equivalent of a $700 fine. Yet, Assange has somehow rocketed to a spot on Interpol's most wanted list, no doubt displacing mass-raping war criminals, sex traffickers, and other global predators".
"So, what exactly is Assange accused of doing? Sweden prohibits prosecutors from releasing any details about sexual assault allegations, so it's impossible to know for sure. Best guess, based on admittedly murky media reports, is that Assange is accused of violating two (otherwise consenting) sex partners by flouting their wishes with regard to condoms"
http://bigthink.com/focal-point/a-feminist-lawyer-on-the-case-against-wi...
Feminist lawyer Jill Filipovic writes, "Assange is the target of an international manhunt. One of the crimes he's accused of carries the equivalent of a $700 fine. Yet, Assange has somehow rocketed to a spot on Interpol's most wanted list, no doubt displacing mass-raping war criminals, sex traffickers, and other global predators".
"So, what exactly is Assange accused of doing? Sweden prohibits prosecutors from releasing any details about sexual assault allegations, so it's impossible to know for sure. Best guess, based on admittedly murky media reports, is that Assange is accused of violating two (otherwise consenting) sex partners by flouting their wishes with regard to condoms"
http://bigthink.com/focal-point/a-feminist-lawyer-on-the-case-against-wi...
3
You have an oddly nuanced link that doesn't support your position. The article doesn't dismiss the validity of rape charges against Assange--on the contrary, it says that he would be charged with rape even in the United States if he continued to have sex when the woman told him to stop. Swedish law is stricter than American laws on rape, and Filipovic isn't a Swedish lawyer. She isn't in a position to act like an expert.
1
A shame shared by Sweden and the United States.
17
When it can be proven that Assange sat on incriminating material detrimental to the Republicans, then you can make a case that Assange "was out to get" HRC.
It appears that he had that info early in the primaries when Sanders was still competitive. That would have been the time to inflict the most damage to HRC. Therefore, is doesn't appear that Assange is part of the "vast conspiracy" that she is always whining about.
It appears that he had that info early in the primaries when Sanders was still competitive. That would have been the time to inflict the most damage to HRC. Therefore, is doesn't appear that Assange is part of the "vast conspiracy" that she is always whining about.
13
No, indeed. Him holding it until after Sanders was out might just prove that he did not habor specific ill will towards HRC. It proves something much more troubling. That he was working in support of Donald Trump. This would suggest that his goals were the same as Putin's: to weaken the USA by electing the most inept, corrupt and compromised President in US history.
11
Maybe he was out to get the democrats cause clearly the russians favored the republican candidate, and assange is owned by the russians. But it's fun to call females "whiners", isn't it? Nice and degrading.
But still, the fact remains: if HRC wasn't such a flawed candidate who ran such an inept campaign, the election results couldn't have been changed by God. And of course, there is still no evidence that the Wikileaks revelations affected the results.
4
Congrats to Julian and Chelsea on your hard-earned freedom. People like you truly live the expression: freedom isn't free.
27
How about loose lips sink ships and puts the lives of our agents at risk. The same agents that are out there to trying to prevent another 911. Assange and company are no heroes
4
Julian Assange is not free. He remains in a self-imposed exile in the Ecuador embassy. He has not been cleared of any charges, either the rape case or exposing classified information. And by the way, had you actually read the article fully you'd know that.
7
Dear lotusflower0,
Yes, I had read the article and am aware that his hard-earned freedom isn't yet complete. However, the dropping of these suspiciously-timed rape inquiry is a step in the right direction. His initial efforts (along with then-Mr. Manning's and Mr. Snowden's) were pioneering in exposing the lies and hypocrisy behind the Iraq war.
Dear VMG,
As for loose lips, look no further than the current occupant of the White House. As for preventing another 911, wasting those agents' skills and resources in Iraq has done a lot more damage than Mr. Assange has.
Yes, I had read the article and am aware that his hard-earned freedom isn't yet complete. However, the dropping of these suspiciously-timed rape inquiry is a step in the right direction. His initial efforts (along with then-Mr. Manning's and Mr. Snowden's) were pioneering in exposing the lies and hypocrisy behind the Iraq war.
Dear VMG,
As for loose lips, look no further than the current occupant of the White House. As for preventing another 911, wasting those agents' skills and resources in Iraq has done a lot more damage than Mr. Assange has.
1
It's interesting that the comments from Americans are mostly anti-Assange while comments from elsewhere are pro-truth. This illustrates just how effective the media is at influencing our opinions on important issues - like exposing the truth.
42
Absolutely correct and on target. And the worst part is that Americans have been gulled to believe they are well-informed. Chomsky's been ringing the bell of alarm about this for decades, but he's never gained mainstream traction. Because (return to sentence #2).
8
Not all U.S. citizens are duped.
Although I consider myself fairly liberal, I am certainly open to the possibility that Democratic politicians are also susceptible to corruption and imposing unwarranted surveillance on citizens, and I welcome the exposure of such.
I think the Democratic Party today is completely insane with doggedly pursuing the Russia narrative, and that Democratic operatives actually believe that focusing on Putin diverts the public's attention from their own corruption and hypocrisy.
Although I consider myself fairly liberal, I am certainly open to the possibility that Democratic politicians are also susceptible to corruption and imposing unwarranted surveillance on citizens, and I welcome the exposure of such.
I think the Democratic Party today is completely insane with doggedly pursuing the Russia narrative, and that Democratic operatives actually believe that focusing on Putin diverts the public's attention from their own corruption and hypocrisy.
14
It is possible, even for a dumb ol' American like me, to support whistleblowers while also recognizing Assange as a toxic narcissist, probable misogynist (setting aside any animus toward Clinton, look to the episode with Wikileaks' indiscriminate datadump re: "Erdogan emails" in July 2016 and their blasé response re: the millions of Turkish women they endangered), and possible rapist. These two viewpoints are not mutually exclusive, in fact they're both "pro-truth."
3
Assange was apparently so desperate to avoid rape charges that he put himself in self-imposed prison in the embassy. How guilt was/is he? He was not willing to hire a lawyer and go to court to defend his innocence? Sweden was going to railroad him? I don't think so.
He was afraid of suffering the consequences of his actions. Why else hole up like that?
Assange is a coward.
He was afraid of suffering the consequences of his actions. Why else hole up like that?
Assange is a coward.
65
Those charges must have been terribly serious if they dropped them. You ever hear of rape charges getting dropped? Me neither ....
4
It was a fabricated case to get Assange for revealing the truth. You really think that someone charged for political reasons with something he did not do, is then going to get a fair trial?
3
When somebody avoids getting locked up in a prison on trumped up charges and without any due recourse, you call that person coward?
Julian is one of the bravest persons in the world because he has been helping whistleblowers all over the world to expose corruption in the most powerful countries/institutions.
Julian is one of the bravest persons in the world because he has been helping whistleblowers all over the world to expose corruption in the most powerful countries/institutions.
10
Good news for a change. The Brits are brutes like their former colonists in their promise to arrest him if he steps out.
19
The sexual charges against Assange were phony.
He was targeted because he exposed the the US war crimes in Iraq.
He was targeted because he exposed the the US war crimes in Iraq.
44
It doesn't matter how morally and intellectually coward Americans keep getting about this.
The truth is still that the information obtained by the NDC and published by Wikileaks was absolutely authentic and the public had an absolute right to know it.
Under such circumstances, it is completely immaterial, politically, where it ultimately came from.
Did the American electorate have the right to know, say, that years before Trump bragged about groping women but NOT the right to know that:
The top leadership of the Democratic party was actively conspiring to undermine, if not torpedo, the campaign of a running democratic rival, Mr. Sanders, in what is one of the most shocking subversion of the democratic process ever seen in decades;that Hilary Clinton was planning the Syrian war years ahead with mostly Israel's security, not the the US', in mind, as the published emails make crystal clear. To name only the two most egregious examples.
A very serious investigation should have been opened against Clinton and the democrats involved in the attempted disruption of Sanders' campaign, but nothing of the sort has ever happened.
If anybody in the US made a voting decision based on what was disclosed by Wikileaks, well, they had the absolute right to do so, considering the incredibly serious nature of the facts involved.
Yet, there is actually no compelling evidence to prove that the "rust" states' voters had been influenced in any way by that.
AMERICANS voted for Trump, not Moscow.
The truth is still that the information obtained by the NDC and published by Wikileaks was absolutely authentic and the public had an absolute right to know it.
Under such circumstances, it is completely immaterial, politically, where it ultimately came from.
Did the American electorate have the right to know, say, that years before Trump bragged about groping women but NOT the right to know that:
The top leadership of the Democratic party was actively conspiring to undermine, if not torpedo, the campaign of a running democratic rival, Mr. Sanders, in what is one of the most shocking subversion of the democratic process ever seen in decades;that Hilary Clinton was planning the Syrian war years ahead with mostly Israel's security, not the the US', in mind, as the published emails make crystal clear. To name only the two most egregious examples.
A very serious investigation should have been opened against Clinton and the democrats involved in the attempted disruption of Sanders' campaign, but nothing of the sort has ever happened.
If anybody in the US made a voting decision based on what was disclosed by Wikileaks, well, they had the absolute right to do so, considering the incredibly serious nature of the facts involved.
Yet, there is actually no compelling evidence to prove that the "rust" states' voters had been influenced in any way by that.
AMERICANS voted for Trump, not Moscow.
36
You seem to have bought all the conspiracy theories. In what way did the DNC torpedo Sanders' nomination? You are aware, I assume, that the DNC has no control over the nomination rules or equipment in Democratic primaries? What conspiracy web site has Clinton planning the Syrian war for years with the Israelis before it began?
You're a Trump voter. I can see why you'd prefer that we believe Americans elected Trump. However, you're wrong. If the will of the voters were the deciding factor, then Clinton would be president. Under our system, the electoral college chooses the president, regardless of the will of the voters.
You're a Trump voter. I can see why you'd prefer that we believe Americans elected Trump. However, you're wrong. If the will of the voters were the deciding factor, then Clinton would be president. Under our system, the electoral college chooses the president, regardless of the will of the voters.
1
i am so glad that I live in a World, along with Chelsea Manning , Julian Assange, and Edward Snowden, who collectively have made this World a better place, in spite of continuing US efforts to make it worse.
46
Yay! Finally! Bravo Julian, I hope you continue to be our voice! The very very best for you!!!!
24
@Maita - He has not been found innocent. The charges can't go forward because Assange refuses to go to Sweden as required by law. According to the evidence, the Swedish prosecutor believes he is not innocent.
4
Assange's deficiencies as a person, and indeed his distasteful flirtation with the Russians and Trump, should not obscure the fact that genuine whistle blowers are one of our few defenses against the secrecy and the lies of governments and we need to do all we can to make sure they are not heavily penalised for those actions, while expecting them to be as accountable as everyone else for whatever genuine transgressions they make.
I condemned Assange for hiding from the Swedes even as I applauded him for hiding from the US government. Assuming that the case has been dropped because there genuinely is nothing to answer, one would hope this makes the whole thing less complicated.
I condemned Assange for hiding from the Swedes even as I applauded him for hiding from the US government. Assuming that the case has been dropped because there genuinely is nothing to answer, one would hope this makes the whole thing less complicated.
8
FYI - Julian never hid from Sweden who purportedly wanted to ask him some questions. But Sweden refused to send investigators to Britain to ask him the questions. 2 years ago UN release a report criticizing Sweden for hounding Julian and tormenting him without ever bringing any charges.
@Louise - READ THE ARTICLE. Charges were dropped because Swedish law requires the accused to show up to be informed of charges and set a trial date. Assange is staying in the embassy for many reasons, and this is one of them. He needs to stay out of Sweden until 2020 to avoid being prosecuted as time will lapse according to law. But he is not innocent, and the evidence (according to the Swedish prosecutor) would prove that.
4
Assange's ridiculous tweet showing him with a hyena grin is further indication just how lacking in any moral compass this man is. The Swedish prosecutor who dropped the charges against him made it clear that he has not been found innocent, just that the machinery isn't there to convict him for a crime he most likely committed. Not that I have anything against whistleblowers - I stand 100% behind Edward Snowden and Chelsea Manning. Both these individuals, at severe cost to themselves, notified Americans of severe threats by national intelligence services. Assange is different, the ultimate troll.
Assange is a narcissist who enjoys shaping world events through releasing selected material for his own fame and amusement, and possibly profit. He's become a political tool, and in my opinion, is not to be trusted with any information at all any time. He'll use it to shape what ever situation he can to benefit his ego and, perhaps, the highest bidder.... which in the last election appeared to be the Russian/Trump connection.
54
Aren't all celebrities narcissists?
1
No, all celebrities aren't narcissists.
1
Although I believe in government transparency and sharing information, the fact that Assange actually targeted Hillary Clinton and the Democratic party and influenced an American election, while ignoring Trump and the most dangerous party of powermongers and sycophants in this country, the Republicans, has turned my opinion of him. Because he had a personal grudge against HRC (just like his complicit comrade-in-arms against women, Vladimir Putin), and decided to engage in more character assassination, he has shown himself to be as vindictive and petty as Trump himself.
On top of that the Swedes still believe that he is guilty of rape. They are not giving up for lack of evidence. In addition to his lending support to Trump and the Republicans, with their regressive attitudes toward women, there is plenty of evidence that he is just another over-entitled male narcissist who refuses to acknowledge that his actions have caused great harm to many.
I hope he is prosecuted someday and Wikileaks is turned over to someone with real integrity, not just a faker who picks and chooses his principles to suit his ego.
On top of that the Swedes still believe that he is guilty of rape. They are not giving up for lack of evidence. In addition to his lending support to Trump and the Republicans, with their regressive attitudes toward women, there is plenty of evidence that he is just another over-entitled male narcissist who refuses to acknowledge that his actions have caused great harm to many.
I hope he is prosecuted someday and Wikileaks is turned over to someone with real integrity, not just a faker who picks and chooses his principles to suit his ego.
49
Let's assume Assange is the worst person that ever existed and hates women and rapes puppies as a hobby. Female puppies. He possibly stopped or delayed another war in the middle East and laid bare the moral corruption in Washington. There is no difference between the parties. If clinton/Bush had been elected we'd be talking about the war in Syria and how the TPP didn't really cost any manufacturing jobs.
5
What's the evidence that Wikileaks possessed evidence against Trump? As I understand it Wikileaks publishes information it receives from third parties. Do you have evidence that Wikileaks has information against Trump but did not release it?
@Brian said: "He possibly stopped or delayed another war in the middle East and laid bare the moral corruption in Washington. "
----
You think Assange stopped a war from happening? Based on what delusion exactly?
----
You think Assange stopped a war from happening? Based on what delusion exactly?
Why is it that whistleblowers are championed by Liberals when they reveal Businesses Behaving Badly, but are reviled by the same Liberals when they reveal Liberals Behaving Badly?
19
No complaint here, I'm glad Sweden came to it's senses
7
@Joseph - Sweden would rather charge and prosecute. But because Assange is a coward and continues to hide at the embassy (he can leave at any time), Swedish law states the accused has to show up in the country and be properly informed and charged.
4
Governments use fake charges against anyone they deem a threat. The corporate oligarchs decide what information or propaganda can be pressed on the population.
WikiLeaks is important just like the Pentagon papers were or the JFK assassination leaks or the MLK Jr assassination leaks.
It's amazing how many smears come out against anyone fighting oligarchs. Elliot Spitzer's bank accounts were analyzed and he was caught with prostitutes because he was prosecuting Wall Street criminals. The oligarchs want to keep their gravy train going and will do absolutely anything to ensure it keeps going.
Be very skeptical of any character assassination attempts you see in the media. If you just follow the money, you'll find those attacks are just distracting from the real story of crimes by oligarchs.
WikiLeaks is important just like the Pentagon papers were or the JFK assassination leaks or the MLK Jr assassination leaks.
It's amazing how many smears come out against anyone fighting oligarchs. Elliot Spitzer's bank accounts were analyzed and he was caught with prostitutes because he was prosecuting Wall Street criminals. The oligarchs want to keep their gravy train going and will do absolutely anything to ensure it keeps going.
Be very skeptical of any character assassination attempts you see in the media. If you just follow the money, you'll find those attacks are just distracting from the real story of crimes by oligarchs.
16
Elliot Spitzer is a true hero. No one was better at catching Wall Street malfeasance. Notice that Spitzer is a Democrat, in case you share the naïve belief that there's no difference between the parties.
Julian Assange has no problem with oligarchs. He's very supportive of the biggest kleptocracy in the world--Putin's Russia. If he were really dedicated to transparency, instead of his personal agenda, he would earn respect.
Julian Assange has no problem with oligarchs. He's very supportive of the biggest kleptocracy in the world--Putin's Russia. If he were really dedicated to transparency, instead of his personal agenda, he would earn respect.
1
So Assange beats rape charges by cowardly holing up in a third world country embassy. What a guy!
A self-serving narcissist of the highest order he should be extradited to the U.S. and tried for his role in leaking classified information. If he ever dares to leave the embassy, I hope the CIA kidnaps him. Keep looking over your shoulder, Julian.
A self-serving narcissist of the highest order he should be extradited to the U.S. and tried for his role in leaking classified information. If he ever dares to leave the embassy, I hope the CIA kidnaps him. Keep looking over your shoulder, Julian.
21
So tell me abut the evidence you know about and how you would prove his guilt, which has not yet been proven by the way!
6
When are you going to pay your debt to society?
I respected Assange as a whistle-blower, though the rape charge made me dubious about him as a person. I was glad when Wikileaks revealed how the DNC sabotaged Bernie Sanders. Had he revealed evidence of malfeasance from Trump's campaign as well as from Clinton's campaign, I'd respect him still, as I respect Chelsea Manning. However, his single-minded attack on Clinton: 1) belies his claim to reveal information in the name of honesty and transparency for the public good, 2) reveals him as motivated by petty vengefulness instead, 3) reinforces the rape charge's implication of misogyny, and 4) stuck the world with Trump.
I can understand why he would be vengeful after being locked up in the Ecuadorian embassy for 5 years, but sticking us with Trump is unforgivable. The only way he can redeem himself is to find (if he doesn't already have it) and reveal the information Mueller needs to throw Trump's lot of crooks out on their ears.
I can understand why he would be vengeful after being locked up in the Ecuadorian embassy for 5 years, but sticking us with Trump is unforgivable. The only way he can redeem himself is to find (if he doesn't already have it) and reveal the information Mueller needs to throw Trump's lot of crooks out on their ears.
18
Learn the facts about the "rape" charge first. The best summary is in an article called "Julian Assange In The Honey Trap".
@Maureen Hawkins - He's not locked up, he can leave at any time. Assange CHOSE to be there because he doesn't want to face any consequences of his questionable "pursuit of the truth". Or the rape charges, which the Swedish prosecutor believes are held up by the evidence.
6
Thank you Maureen. Well stated. I enjoy reading a non biased opinion for a change -- clearly based on critical thinking. I totally concur.
2
totally safe for him to leave.. totally wont get shot in the head once he leaves
5
As Assange is an Australian citizen, why would he be subject to U.S. law if he is not in the United States?
If an American citizen living in the United States were to state something disparaging about the king of Thailand, which is against Thai law, could this American be extradited to Thailand even though he did not violate U.S. law?
Under what authority does the United States have the right to charge a citizen of a foreign nation with a violation of U.S. law if he was not in the United States when the alleged violation occurred?
If an American citizen living in the United States were to state something disparaging about the king of Thailand, which is against Thai law, could this American be extradited to Thailand even though he did not violate U.S. law?
Under what authority does the United States have the right to charge a citizen of a foreign nation with a violation of U.S. law if he was not in the United States when the alleged violation occurred?
12
The United States can seek extradition against any individual who commits harm against the country or its citizens -- its powerful stature in the world means that countries with whom it shares an extradition treaty are compelled to comply.
The reason why your Thailand example would not come to pass is because the relationship is mutual -- the United States can decline to extradite Americans on American soil for violations of foreign law with little repercussion. This is what happened at one point in the Amanda Knox case; the Italian courts reinstated her charges but the United States did not extradict her to stand trial.
The reason why your Thailand example would not come to pass is because the relationship is mutual -- the United States can decline to extradite Americans on American soil for violations of foreign law with little repercussion. This is what happened at one point in the Amanda Knox case; the Italian courts reinstated her charges but the United States did not extradict her to stand trial.
4
The article reads: "During the presidential campaign last year the site distributed hacked emails from the Democratic National Committee. Mr. Assange, a mercurial figure, has acknowledged that the release of the documents had been timed to induce maximum harm to the prospects of Hillary Clinton."
The actual release by Wikileaks was made in October, 2016 according to the NYTimes (U.S. Says Russia Directed Hacks to Influence Elections, by DAVID E. SANGER and CHARLIE SAVAGE, OCT. 7, 2016).
If the release of these documents had been made months earlier, which included major problematic portions of Hillary Clinton speeches to Wall Street banks and other major corporations, Senator Bernie Sanders might well have been the Democratic Party presidential nominee. And, if that had been the case, there would be no President Donald Trump; Senator Bernie Sanders would have been elected President of the United States and We the People would not have so many problems as we now have.
The actual release by Wikileaks was made in October, 2016 according to the NYTimes (U.S. Says Russia Directed Hacks to Influence Elections, by DAVID E. SANGER and CHARLIE SAVAGE, OCT. 7, 2016).
If the release of these documents had been made months earlier, which included major problematic portions of Hillary Clinton speeches to Wall Street banks and other major corporations, Senator Bernie Sanders might well have been the Democratic Party presidential nominee. And, if that had been the case, there would be no President Donald Trump; Senator Bernie Sanders would have been elected President of the United States and We the People would not have so many problems as we now have.
18
@David Lockmiller - Still carrying the torch for Sanders? Why has he been so low-profile and quiet since his return to Washington, particularly with everything that's going on? Maybe not the savior you make him out to be, and less electable than you imply. The Trump people would have made a big deal about his former Communist party ties, his trip to Russia for his honeymoon, etc. They'd have crushed him.
6
@ Lotus, much like they are doing to current POTUS. As much as I would have voted for Sanders he was unelectable in the middle states. I voted for HRC even though she was the lesser of two evils. Let's see what happens when Mueller finishes his task at hand.
You want to assassinate a foreign citizen because your American candidate did not win? How much power you want to give this one guy named Assange for your citizens' stupidity and bias in not voting for your lover boy or lover girl? You make the American voters sound like puppets who can be easily influenced by one guy and his message. If that is the case, Assange or no Assange, Hillary or no Hillary or Billary, the US is doomed.
Only the most superficial of analyses could conclude Assange is a narcissist or paid troll of anyone. Oddly, some view him as an American, with characteristic American vices and aspirations, simply because they're incapable of understanding any other system of values.
Assange is an idealist who believes the roots of all evil can be found at the junction of power and deception. Doesn't matter who you are, to which party you belong, or when he finds evidence of it - he will call you out. That there is some mopping up to do afterwards is neither his concern nor his responsibility.
Assange is an idealist who believes the roots of all evil can be found at the junction of power and deception. Doesn't matter who you are, to which party you belong, or when he finds evidence of it - he will call you out. That there is some mopping up to do afterwards is neither his concern nor his responsibility.
20
We're still waiting for Assange's leaks on Putin. Let's see how much Assange really believes in transparency.
Of course it matters who you are. Assange is motivated by hatred of the United States. He wants to be the man who changes history by crippling the United States. That's not idealism--that's narcissism.
Of course it matters who you are. Assange is motivated by hatred of the United States. He wants to be the man who changes history by crippling the United States. That's not idealism--that's narcissism.
2
It's not a matter of "tradition" that the press is not held liable for publishing classified information, it's a matter of Supreme Court decision in the Pentagon Papers case. If the information is to the benefit of people to know, then the First Amendment protects the dissemination of it.
26
He will be arrested for not failing to appear in a court for charges that have been dropped? That sounds like a catch 22, that he should have submitted himself for arrest to avoid arrest.
8
1) The charges haven't been dropped.
2) It's a crime to jump bail. However, I suspect the statute of limitations for jumping bail is considerably shorter than the statute for rape.
2) It's a crime to jump bail. However, I suspect the statute of limitations for jumping bail is considerably shorter than the statute for rape.
Ecuador defending the rule of law and freedom of speech against Sweden, the UK and foremost the US. Why is this not a scandal of the utmost significance for all of us living in the western "free" world?
18
Because we've given up our freedom for an illusion of security?
1
Ecuador is not defending the rule of law. It's enabling an accused rapist to evade the law. And that is a scandal.
2
"Ultimately, no charges were brought, at least partly because it proved difficult to distinguish what WikiLeaks had done with classified information from what The New York Times and many other mainstream news organizations do."
All responsible mainstream news organizations redact information that may put people in danger or cripple future intelligence operations, if those operations are legal. As I recall, not all operations that were the subject of Assange's leaks *were* legal, though some were, and many names of agents and contacts as well as details of intelligence gathering sources and methods were explicitly named. Responsible mainstream news organizations pass on leaks discriminately, only after careful consideration. Wikileaks incontinently dumps gigabytes (terabytes?) of data at a time, with no thought given to the specific consequences of revealing specific information.
If there are legitimate crimes with which he can be charged, it would certainly be in America's interest to pursue the cases.
All responsible mainstream news organizations redact information that may put people in danger or cripple future intelligence operations, if those operations are legal. As I recall, not all operations that were the subject of Assange's leaks *were* legal, though some were, and many names of agents and contacts as well as details of intelligence gathering sources and methods were explicitly named. Responsible mainstream news organizations pass on leaks discriminately, only after careful consideration. Wikileaks incontinently dumps gigabytes (terabytes?) of data at a time, with no thought given to the specific consequences of revealing specific information.
If there are legitimate crimes with which he can be charged, it would certainly be in America's interest to pursue the cases.
6
"Provided my rights are respected" shows a naiveté about the inconsistency of the US 'justice' system. He is very unwise to use that as a criteria in his decision-making.
5
@lazlo toth - To Assange, "Provided my rights are respected" means that no person or country will hold Assange responsible for any of his actions, no matter how despicable they may be.
5
The UK government should openly denounce the human rights treaties they have signed if they are planning persecute Assange for exercising his right to claim asylum.
15
The Ecuadorians are weeping with joy....
4
@Jim - Why? Assange will remain at the embassy in order to continue to avoid prosecution in Sweden.
I was very happy to read the news that Sweden dropped its charges against Assange. America’s heroes Edward Snowden and Chelsea Manning have been treated disgracefully by the U.S. government (as well as by Hillary and Trump). We must support and cherish them and do everything possible to free Edward Snowden.
14
Disgusting. It shows if you've got money or famous the law doesn't apply to you. You are give "special rules" ones that permit you to engage in crimes - and that crimes against women aren't taken seriously. He'd probably be in more trouble for money laundering. Maybe he and Roman can go on a holiday together.
First of all he is not a Democrat. Second of all he is also a citizen of foreign prince and one cannot know where his ultimate loyalty lies.
2
I'm sure the Ecuadorean Embassy is a lot more comfortable than prison but five years in the same building? I'd be going a little Jack Torrance right about now. "Here's Johnny!"
The situation is a hot potato for the Trump administration though. I have no doubt Trump is willing to throw Assange under the bus despite his earlier praise. Actually, there seems to be a pattern. Anyone Trump showers with adoration is going to get kicked from behind. He'll no doubt place any political fallout firmly on Jeff Sessions' door step. Predictable but that's not the problem.
If the U.S. extradites Assange to the States, there's a very good chance he'll walk. Far from coming down hard on leaks, Trump will have validated Assange's actions. That's not exactly discouraging to leakers or the publishers of leaked information. The optics aren't great for Trump either. Come down too easy and people will wonder if prosecutors allowed Assange to walk. Come down too hard and Assange will stay in the Embassy. It might be better for Trump to leave Assange alone rather than risk getting caught up in this mess.
The problem here: If Trump agrees to drop the case against Assange, he'll no doubt face another round of accusations about the Russian Affair. Dropping the case might be the smartest thing to do but the optics could very well prove even more damaging to Trump. Not a fun decision to make.
The situation is a hot potato for the Trump administration though. I have no doubt Trump is willing to throw Assange under the bus despite his earlier praise. Actually, there seems to be a pattern. Anyone Trump showers with adoration is going to get kicked from behind. He'll no doubt place any political fallout firmly on Jeff Sessions' door step. Predictable but that's not the problem.
If the U.S. extradites Assange to the States, there's a very good chance he'll walk. Far from coming down hard on leaks, Trump will have validated Assange's actions. That's not exactly discouraging to leakers or the publishers of leaked information. The optics aren't great for Trump either. Come down too easy and people will wonder if prosecutors allowed Assange to walk. Come down too hard and Assange will stay in the Embassy. It might be better for Trump to leave Assange alone rather than risk getting caught up in this mess.
The problem here: If Trump agrees to drop the case against Assange, he'll no doubt face another round of accusations about the Russian Affair. Dropping the case might be the smartest thing to do but the optics could very well prove even more damaging to Trump. Not a fun decision to make.
Gimme a break! All these defenders of another narcissist as to being a bearer of truth against the evils of a secretive government. Why not some leaks on Russia then? Hm?
Julian Assange is up against it because US coercive influence in the world is ubiquitous. And the UK, as lapdog to US deep state interests, will arrest him to hand him over.
When you speak truth to power there is nothing power will stop at to silence you. And Mr. "I love Wikileaks" in his usual fashion will bail on Assange and let his coterie of deranged nationalists hound him to the ends of the earth.
When you speak truth to power there is nothing power will stop at to silence you. And Mr. "I love Wikileaks" in his usual fashion will bail on Assange and let his coterie of deranged nationalists hound him to the ends of the earth.
7
Of course Trump will bail on Assange if it's to his advantage. He already has. Trump has no loyalty to anyone.
1
Shame on Sweden for giving up because he didn't show up. And shame on the N Y Times for not again running details about the two sexual assaults he was accused of, and probably committed (why else did he hide like a coward for five years?).
6
Yes, the New York Times should report on the details of the sexual assault cases against Assange. However, once you read these details, you may find that you are more dubious of his guilt in these matters.
8
Assange hided for fear of extradition to the United States for his role in Wikileaks. Why "probably committed"? There was no immediate reaction after the purported sexual assaults by the two women concerned. Only after they met and found out that Assange had "betrayed" them mutually they decided to revenge the betrayal.
2
@Gerhard - Are all Swedish men as mysogynistic as you sound?
He is no Snowden.
You can't say "Assange" without "ass".
You can't say "Assange" without "ass".
16
It is uniformly accepted, even by the most ardent supporters of the Obama administration that the expansion of our national security state has brought with it the vast, over classifying of information that should be part of the public record.
When this information is public, it disappears from public debate. We get one side and one side only and that is the governments version of what it does.
One needn't list the very long list of situations where our own government has either lied to the public, or hidden critical information from public debate. This is not an abstract matter. War and peace has been decided and millions of live affected by government secrecy.
If we are to retain some semblance of democracy we must know what our government is doing in our name. This doesn't mean abandoning national security or placing Americans at risk.
Nearly all Wikileaks revelations have been embarrassing, not dangerous. And the only reason they've been embarrassing is because those who represent us have lied to us. Until we reform our government we will need Wikileaks. And Assange, for all his flaws should continue to play the role of international whistleblower.
When this information is public, it disappears from public debate. We get one side and one side only and that is the governments version of what it does.
One needn't list the very long list of situations where our own government has either lied to the public, or hidden critical information from public debate. This is not an abstract matter. War and peace has been decided and millions of live affected by government secrecy.
If we are to retain some semblance of democracy we must know what our government is doing in our name. This doesn't mean abandoning national security or placing Americans at risk.
Nearly all Wikileaks revelations have been embarrassing, not dangerous. And the only reason they've been embarrassing is because those who represent us have lied to us. Until we reform our government we will need Wikileaks. And Assange, for all his flaws should continue to play the role of international whistleblower.
91
Poppycock.
5
Arrange didn't make America, "well-informed, again". He chose what information to release - only Hillary's campaign emails and DMV emails, and not the RNC info which he also hacked - showing he was trying to influence the electiin, not merely to inform
(If he was trying to inform, he would have released the emails from both the DNC and the RNC.)
Also, leave the murdered kid out of it. There is no proof he had anything to do with anything untoward and your repeating Fox talking points is irresponsible and I'm sure hurtful to the family. Just stop.
(If he was trying to inform, he would have released the emails from both the DNC and the RNC.)
Also, leave the murdered kid out of it. There is no proof he had anything to do with anything untoward and your repeating Fox talking points is irresponsible and I'm sure hurtful to the family. Just stop.
Wikileaks is a tool used by Putin to influence elections. It has zero credibility.
6
I would have some respect for Assange and Wikileaks if they didn't consistently show their preference for Trump during the campaign season. Expose the inner workings of both Presidential campaigns, and let the people know what's going on behind the scenes so they can decide for themselves who to support; that would have been okay with me. But to choose to publish only the information from Clinton's campaign, and then to weaponize it by deliberately picking the timing, choosing the nature, and selecting the amount of information (trickle, trickle, trickle) released to inflict maximum damage on only one candidate...that completely compromised any credibility they may have had, or ever will have.
153
In what way(s) did Wikileaks exhibit favoritism towards Trump? Exposing the truth about Clinton and the DNC most definitely didn't help her, of course. They did that to themselves, cocksure none would be the wiser.
Are you implying they had/have dirt on Trump and refuse to release it? Relish wallowing in those fantasies while they last, amigo.
Are you implying they had/have dirt on Trump and refuse to release it? Relish wallowing in those fantasies while they last, amigo.
21
Trump's campaign was hacked, with similar fingerprints (i.e., that of Russian hackers) found to the way the DNC was hacked. Yet only one campaign's records were exposed to the public. Hmmm.
Plus, it's one thing to release information to the public so folks can make their own decisions about the inner workings of a campaign or government. It's entirely another to parse out that information, bit by bit, and to tie the release of it to certain campaign events or milestones, to deliberately inflict damage on a candidate's public image. That is manipulation, not freedom of information. And again, this only occurred in relation to one campaign -- Clinton's. Furthermore, Assange has admitted he did it in this way to deliberately damage Clinton's prospects. Yes, he ADMITS it.
So who is really wallowing in the fantasy, amigo? Sorry if the facts and basic logic do not compute for you.
Plus, it's one thing to release information to the public so folks can make their own decisions about the inner workings of a campaign or government. It's entirely another to parse out that information, bit by bit, and to tie the release of it to certain campaign events or milestones, to deliberately inflict damage on a candidate's public image. That is manipulation, not freedom of information. And again, this only occurred in relation to one campaign -- Clinton's. Furthermore, Assange has admitted he did it in this way to deliberately damage Clinton's prospects. Yes, he ADMITS it.
So who is really wallowing in the fantasy, amigo? Sorry if the facts and basic logic do not compute for you.
14
Look I voted for her but people's minds were already made up. We live in a misogynistic society and the civil world wasn't ready for a female POTUS so they elected a pig and a liar. Stop blaming everyone under the sun except HRC fro her demise in her bid. What is the adage? If you don't want it seen on the front page of the NY Times DON'T put it in writing.
Debbie Wasserman-Schultz and Co. royally screwed it up as did HRC, she forgot there are 48 other states not just CA and NY. She goofed and we pay.
Debbie Wasserman-Schultz and Co. royally screwed it up as did HRC, she forgot there are 48 other states not just CA and NY. She goofed and we pay.
1
We should make every continuing effort to extradite Assange for his willing and undoubtedly paid role working for the Russians in undermining the free electoral process in the United States by being the conduit for hacked and occasionally falsified documents targeted at our 2016 Presidential election.
Any statements that Assange is really a good guy who just wants everyone to have access to everything, no matter how private or sensitive, continue to exceed all credibility. My hope is that this slimy character will one day discover what true justice is, in an American courtroom on trial for his crimes against all of us.
Any statements that Assange is really a good guy who just wants everyone to have access to everything, no matter how private or sensitive, continue to exceed all credibility. My hope is that this slimy character will one day discover what true justice is, in an American courtroom on trial for his crimes against all of us.
80
@Porter
How rich! Sure, extradite and throw the book at Assange for allegedly working with and getting paid by the Russians while the REAL culprits are right here in our nation's capital. Stop looking for scapegoats. You are, at best, very naive.
How rich! Sure, extradite and throw the book at Assange for allegedly working with and getting paid by the Russians while the REAL culprits are right here in our nation's capital. Stop looking for scapegoats. You are, at best, very naive.
9
Yes he was been pursued relentlessly on false charges, He releases TRUTHS our journalists who have a DUTY to report the truth fail too. His wikileaks are the only one's who unlike others have told us truths and those embarrassing things revealed are the fault of those who did wrong not those who report it. You mention 'occasionally falsified documents' but there have not been any.
It clearly does not matter to you that both the EU and UN courts found FOR Assange (never mentioned in the media campaign as that would undermine the narrative you picked up with prejudice to assume he is lying, He has already spent 7 years of his life under attack for truth telling. You say again
´that he is 'undoubtedly paid..(and) working for the Russians' again WITHOUT evidence.
In the West a man is ASSUMED innocent until proven guilty. The Swedish courts dropped the original case right at the beginning but under US pressure (from SOS Clinton) the case was reopened against all previous Swedish precedent. You want a hunted innocent man to now be harassed for spreading the truth because you FEEL he is a 'slimy character'.
You think like a witch burning medieval peasant who assumes the unproven charges are true based on nothing conjecture. Indeed you are part of the dumbed down anti democratic movement pushed by the MSM and its alternatives. No principles, no concern for truth.
You Clinton lot and the Trumpsters are the same! Willful, hate filled, partisan and dangerously blind.
It clearly does not matter to you that both the EU and UN courts found FOR Assange (never mentioned in the media campaign as that would undermine the narrative you picked up with prejudice to assume he is lying, He has already spent 7 years of his life under attack for truth telling. You say again
´that he is 'undoubtedly paid..(and) working for the Russians' again WITHOUT evidence.
In the West a man is ASSUMED innocent until proven guilty. The Swedish courts dropped the original case right at the beginning but under US pressure (from SOS Clinton) the case was reopened against all previous Swedish precedent. You want a hunted innocent man to now be harassed for spreading the truth because you FEEL he is a 'slimy character'.
You think like a witch burning medieval peasant who assumes the unproven charges are true based on nothing conjecture. Indeed you are part of the dumbed down anti democratic movement pushed by the MSM and its alternatives. No principles, no concern for truth.
You Clinton lot and the Trumpsters are the same! Willful, hate filled, partisan and dangerously blind.
18
The aman has been found innocent, He has had 7 years of his life stolen from him already for revealing truth our media failed in THEIR duty to reveal,
None of his reveals have been shown to be lies and the case was a set up. Apparently your idea of ' true justice is, in an American courtroom' is a totalitarian kangeroo court with some torture added in (see Manning). He has given the world the truth whether you CHOOSE to like him or not and as for election fixing try the DNC and Sanders or the MSM whose lies you support and who BUILT Trump while sliming Sanders.
You and truth are deeply opposed enemies as our justice, fair trials and concern for a truly free press. You want 'Show trials' ala USSR, Wow perfectly and tragically ironic and how scary too! You and the Trump supporters are the same, Willfully bigoted and truth resistent
None of his reveals have been shown to be lies and the case was a set up. Apparently your idea of ' true justice is, in an American courtroom' is a totalitarian kangeroo court with some torture added in (see Manning). He has given the world the truth whether you CHOOSE to like him or not and as for election fixing try the DNC and Sanders or the MSM whose lies you support and who BUILT Trump while sliming Sanders.
You and truth are deeply opposed enemies as our justice, fair trials and concern for a truly free press. You want 'Show trials' ala USSR, Wow perfectly and tragically ironic and how scary too! You and the Trump supporters are the same, Willfully bigoted and truth resistent
10
I hope the Swedish government puts a lot of political and economic pressure on the Ecuadorean government for harboring a fugitive from justice for such a long time.
If Mr. Assange is as innocent as he says he is, he should have gone to Sweden to clear himself.
The excuse of saying he feared being deported to the US if he did was just a ruse.
He just opened himself up to being possible guilty by not doing it.
If Mr. Assange is as innocent as he says he is, he should have gone to Sweden to clear himself.
The excuse of saying he feared being deported to the US if he did was just a ruse.
He just opened himself up to being possible guilty by not doing it.
10
Just a ruse? Now that his alleged friend Trump has unleashed Sessions to get him deported to the US? These charges were always a farce, that is why they were finally dropped. One second after setting foot on Swedish soil, it is obvious the charges would be dropped-and he'd have been packed off to US soil, or perhaps to Guantanamo, which somehow Obama never got around to closing down. And now the Brits want to arrest him for not going quietly to his fate by way of Sweden-obviously to turn him over to whatever Jeff Sessions has in mind for him after a hasty court appearance and a fine for missing his Swedish non-court date.
I think Obama's over-reaction may have been what turned this narcissist into a Russian puppet. We might not have Trump as President now if Assange hadn't been forced into 5 years of hiding.
The blame might be roughly 33/33/33 between Assange, Putin, and Comey. What strange bedfellows.
And no, I do not blame the electorate. Hillary won the popular vote, so if you want to blame anything domestic for our current embarrassment, it would have to be the electoral college.
The blame might be roughly 33/33/33 between Assange, Putin, and Comey. What strange bedfellows.
And no, I do not blame the electorate. Hillary won the popular vote, so if you want to blame anything domestic for our current embarrassment, it would have to be the electoral college.
11
Rather then 33/33/33 how about 25/25/25/25 between Assange, Putin, Comey, and Hillary. Yes, strange bedfellows indeed.
2
Agreed. Obama turned into a national secrets maniac and pursued prosecution against Assange when Wikileaks had merely, like any good journalist, the truth about US activity based on the facts at hand. I think Assange took it personally when Obama (and Clinton) went after him -- and who wouldn't? And I think Assange decided to serve back a dish of revenge against Clinton. Not the best judgement, IMHO, but understandable.
Duane, Obama didn't pursue prosecution of Assange. His administration issued no indictments. And Clinton certainly didn't "go after him"--more like the reverse. Assange believed 25 years of character assassination against Clinton and decided it was his mission to undermine her. And he obviously preferred Trump, but Assange's interests have been closely aligned with those of Putin for a number of years.
1
Assange and Wikleaks which was used by the Russians is unfortunate timing for Trump. I doubt the Swedes were motivated by Trumps problems, and in fiction we'd complain about the coincidence.
1
Truth will set you free, but first it will make you miserable.....James A. Garfield
Julian Assange is the Bob Woodward of this century. Without Julius Assange we would be in the dark ages of blind faith and ignorant of the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Australian born Julian Assange, founder of wikileaks made America well informed again in a timely manner. How he got his information may be a matter of deep concern to governments around the world but from the public stand point, we the people have much to be grateful for. Without wikileaks we would never know in a timely manner, the dirty secrets of those in government or those aspiring to lead the most powerful nation in the world. Was Russia behind wikileaks as alleged by Clinton, who attributes her loss in the 2016 presidential elections to the "Russian wikileaks"? May be the special counsel Robert Mueller could investigate that. The sources behind the success of wikileaks as well as its founder have paid a heavy price in their extreme quest to find the truth. Chelesea Manning left prison 2 days ago after doing jail time. Thanks to Pres. Obama for recognizing the gross injustice and reducing her sentence. Seth Rich a DNC staffer and possible source of wikileaks was murdered in a safe area of Washington with a bullet in his back. It is time all charges against Assange be dropped and he be given asylum in which ever country he will chose to be without being silenced or without being unable to leak the truth.
Julian Assange is the Bob Woodward of this century. Without Julius Assange we would be in the dark ages of blind faith and ignorant of the whole truth and nothing but the truth. Australian born Julian Assange, founder of wikileaks made America well informed again in a timely manner. How he got his information may be a matter of deep concern to governments around the world but from the public stand point, we the people have much to be grateful for. Without wikileaks we would never know in a timely manner, the dirty secrets of those in government or those aspiring to lead the most powerful nation in the world. Was Russia behind wikileaks as alleged by Clinton, who attributes her loss in the 2016 presidential elections to the "Russian wikileaks"? May be the special counsel Robert Mueller could investigate that. The sources behind the success of wikileaks as well as its founder have paid a heavy price in their extreme quest to find the truth. Chelesea Manning left prison 2 days ago after doing jail time. Thanks to Pres. Obama for recognizing the gross injustice and reducing her sentence. Seth Rich a DNC staffer and possible source of wikileaks was murdered in a safe area of Washington with a bullet in his back. It is time all charges against Assange be dropped and he be given asylum in which ever country he will chose to be without being silenced or without being unable to leak the truth.
36
Anyone who reads this newspaper would have known the pertinent fact allegedly revealed by this USA hater in his leaks. Seize him, prosecute him and if convicted let him clean floors in Leavenworth for the rest of life.
@Girish Kotwal - No country has expressed a desire to have him. Why do you think he ended up with Ecuador? And even they are growing weary of having him around. Sweden would take him, but then Assange would have to face trial for rape charges, where the prosecutor believes evidence would convict him.
3
If Assange is interested in the truth, where are the leaks on Putin? Why does he align so closely with Putin?
2
Listen to interviews with him and he comes across as a sanctimonious narcissist. It's all about him.
When you are immoral and corrupt yourself it's hard be taken seriously, especially when you leak indiscriminately sometimes, selectively at other times, and think you are the judge and arbiter of proper principles & moral standards regarding elections, the lives of private citizens and the policies of governments.
He's a phony who suffers from the delusion that he is a virtuous revolutionary destined to save the world ... he'll end up in prison somewhere at some point.
When you are immoral and corrupt yourself it's hard be taken seriously, especially when you leak indiscriminately sometimes, selectively at other times, and think you are the judge and arbiter of proper principles & moral standards regarding elections, the lives of private citizens and the policies of governments.
He's a phony who suffers from the delusion that he is a virtuous revolutionary destined to save the world ... he'll end up in prison somewhere at some point.
98
Are you talking about Trump, or Assange?
7
I don't understand why the DOJ wants to charge Assange and Snowden or why they imprisoned Manning when they let Petreous go free.
60
@Molly j - Because breaking laws have consequences. Manning has received a pardon, by the way, and is no longer imprisoned, did you miss that? Petraeus eventually reached a plea deal for 2 years probation and $100,000 fine, and his career anywhere in the military or government is finished for good. Snowden might well have gotten a plea deal as well, but we'll never know because he ran. And Snowden seems to like Russia, and his girlfriend has moved there to be with him. Assange appears to be an egotistic narcissist who doesn't take responsibility for the consequences of his actions, either personally or "professionally".
4
assAnge iS liKe truMp. A deEply fLawed narcissIst oF tHe fiRst ordEr. ToO Bad hE deciDed tO tUrn wikiLeaks iNto A rusSian agit-prOp operatioN. ChelsEa Is frEe. PleaSe comE foR A visiT aNd sTay fOr liFe. :)
5
This case highlights the sad fact that the Australian Government care little about their own home grown citizens.
He may have leaked classified information, but because of many of these abuses were exposed and action forced, not only on the US, but other countries as well.
He should be extradited to Australia, not the USA, for us to take any action on one of our own.
He may have leaked classified information, but because of many of these abuses were exposed and action forced, not only on the US, but other countries as well.
He should be extradited to Australia, not the USA, for us to take any action on one of our own.
12
Point of contention: He didn't leak anything. Someone in government leaked documents to WWikiLeaks and at least some were published. As noted in the article, this process is followed by nearly all major news outlets, including the NYT. What people/governments really seem to be focused on is motivation. But prosecuting information outlets based on motivation seems like a slippery slope if there ever was one.
8
@Glennbob - Assange can leave that embassy at any time. He won't of course because then he'd have to face the consequences of his actions, including the charges in Sweden if he ever went back. He doesn't have to be extradited anywhere. He chose to apply for refuge, and if he wants to leave he can.
3
Whistle blowers have what seems to be an increasingly important - even necessary - role in today's world. Recognised and appreciated or not.
49
Assange has clearly demonstrated that he is a publicity hound and anarchist with no conscience. It is no wonder that Trump has heaped praise on him.
153
FINALLY! The greatest Human Rights & Civil Liberties activist of the 21st century has had this shady Karl Rove plot to discredit him put to rest.
Props to Sweden for finally acknowledging the United Nations investigation findings.
Props to Sweden for finally acknowledging the United Nations investigation findings.
37
@Michael - Did you only read the headline? This is about the rape charges Assange faced, and the only reason the charges cannot go forward is because Assange is hiding in the Ecuador embassy. The prosecutor in Sweden is confident a crime was committed, but under Swedish laws, Assange would need to show up to be informed of the charges and go forward to a trial.
6
As a conduit for DNC confidential information stolen by the Russians to elect Trump. Assange helped the "president" win. When is Trump planning to pardon Assange and offer him US citizenship?
25
DNC Voter Outreach IT Admin:Seth Rich was the source of the DNC Leaks, son. Your Russia Hoax is a fantasy with no supporting evidence even after illegally subjecting Trump to 100% encapsulated SIGINT "Indirect Surveillance" since 2015.
Your fantasies are a fabrication created whole cloth by Robby Mook.
Your fantasies are a fabrication created whole cloth by Robby Mook.
5
Good. Given all of these crooked political leaders that consistently break the law and then make themselves immune from it, why not? We need Julian. What a breathe of fresh air from the corporate media propaganda.
51
@Randy Smith - You may need Assange, but most of the country disagrees with you. He has no integrity. He's just a narcissist with a huge ego with no regard for the consequences of his actions.
3
People need to keep their government in check. I say Mr. Assange and Ms. Manning are heroes to the American people".
Assange is nothing but a hypocritical fraud and propagandist for Russia, masquerading as a high and mighty defender of truth. I wonder why we've never seen any hacked Russian documents on Wikileaks; hmmm...
177
"Mr. Assange says that he has been denied due process during his time at the embassy, and endured 'cruel, inhumane and degrading treatment.'"
Awww, poor little international fugitive. Are they making you drink tea instead of Ecuadoran coffee? Didn't anyone ever tell you that actions have consequences?
Awww, poor little international fugitive. Are they making you drink tea instead of Ecuadoran coffee? Didn't anyone ever tell you that actions have consequences?
Well it's about time. As a leader of Wikileaks, Julian Assange has done some very good things and some not so good. I guess he has an ego, like a lot of us, that sometimes clouds our judgement.
Wikileaks, as an idea and an (imperfect) organization, is tremendously important in providing a secure channel for whistle-blowers in all manner of public affairs. It does what good investigative journalists have always done: shine a light on the shadows. Sunshine, it has been said, is the best disinfectant.
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Wikileaks, as an idea and an (imperfect) organization, is tremendously important in providing a secure channel for whistle-blowers in all manner of public affairs. It does what good investigative journalists have always done: shine a light on the shadows. Sunshine, it has been said, is the best disinfectant.
I
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@Duane McPherson - "It's about time"?? For what? Not justice by any means. He hasn't been cleared of anything. His cowardice in hiding at the Ecuador embassy is for the sole purpose of not taking responsibility for his actions. He's not a prisoner there, he can leave at any time. He could have chosen to be extradited to Sweden to face trial.
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But when the sun only shines on one corner of the alley (the Democratic National Committee) and thereby favors the other party and candidate, it is more a pollutant than a disinfectant.
If Assange left GB without being arrested I would have to wonder what part Russia played.
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Change your name. You want conviction before trial and being found innocent means nothing to you. It the EU, Swedish and UN courts found for Assange it would mean Russia was involved? Please do tell. Your logic is so unclear and failing but you bias and judgement by inchaote feelings and instincts over facts is positively medieval.
Well done lemming!
Well done lemming!
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@Vlad-Drakul - Read the article, Assange was not found innocent. The charges and trial could not go forward without Assange showing up in Sweden to be informed of the charges and set up for trial there. The Ecuadorean embassy would not cooperate and release Assange to Sweden.
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No need to be defensive, Vlad. No one accused Russia of helping Assange.
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The specter of extradition to the US was the real obstruction of justice here. These rape charges, always pretty flimsy to me from what I know, could have been weighed in a Swedish court without considering the necessarily political baggage that would have triggered an extradition.
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So you are good with getting barebacked without your consent? That seems "flimsy" to me.
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If the US wants to throw journalists in prison for publishing its classified information, it should do so with its own journalists. American citizens have a duty of loyalty to the US that Australian journalists working in the UK don't have. The New York Times and Washington Post publish classified information all the time. Trump should try prosecuting their editors before going after foreign editors working overseas. I would hope that the First Amendment would protect them.
The information they published about General Flynn and Israeli intelligence was probably as highly classified as anything Assange published. The DNC emails weren't even classified. They were just internal communications of a corrupt political party violating its own nomination rules.
If the US government starts going after foreign journalists, foreign governments could start going after American journalists for stories written and published in the US. It would be better for the US to continue to set a good example in respecting freedom of the press than starting to set a bad one.
The information they published about General Flynn and Israeli intelligence was probably as highly classified as anything Assange published. The DNC emails weren't even classified. They were just internal communications of a corrupt political party violating its own nomination rules.
If the US government starts going after foreign journalists, foreign governments could start going after American journalists for stories written and published in the US. It would be better for the US to continue to set a good example in respecting freedom of the press than starting to set a bad one.
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Here's a link worth reading about the alleged "sexual assault":
http://takimag.com/article/julian_assanges_honey_trap_thats_rape_in_swed...
http://takimag.com/article/julian_assanges_honey_trap_thats_rape_in_swed...
"...provided my rights are respected." Boo hoo. He can dish it out, but he can't take it.
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Anyone who believes that Sweden's charges against Mr. Assange are politically motivated should read the published accounts by the two women involved. I personally found them highly credible.
Anyone who believes that Mr. Assange should be prosecuted for WikiLeaks' document dumps should read the history of The Pentagon Papers. It's entirely possible for Mr. Assange to be innocent under the law in the release of the documents despite being morally despicable in how and why he did it.
Anyone who believes that Mr. Assange should be prosecuted for WikiLeaks' document dumps should read the history of The Pentagon Papers. It's entirely possible for Mr. Assange to be innocent under the law in the release of the documents despite being morally despicable in how and why he did it.
Assange is a polarizing figure, and whether you believe the Government always tells the truth or that " All Governments Lie" (I.F Stone), pretty much forms the basis of your opinion about him.
Of course Governments have no interest in the People ever hearing the truth, and since they control the "Justice" system, they seek his prosecution.
The truth has never brought a nation to its knees, while lies always lead to its downfall.
Of course Governments have no interest in the People ever hearing the truth, and since they control the "Justice" system, they seek his prosecution.
The truth has never brought a nation to its knees, while lies always lead to its downfall.
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@ScottW: What about the people who think that when multiple women accuse a man of rape, and police and prosecutors believe that there is probable cause to indict that man on that charge, that he has to answer the charges against him, rather than declare how special he is, by hiding in an embassy, because of his moral crusade for "truth?"
You talk about the "People" and "Justice," but you're forgetting about two Swedish women who state Assange raped them, and you're willing to let that go because of some mumbo jumbo you're passing off as deep think on Democracy.
You talk about the "People" and "Justice," but you're forgetting about two Swedish women who state Assange raped them, and you're willing to let that go because of some mumbo jumbo you're passing off as deep think on Democracy.
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The rape allegations were never legal charges by a prosecutor. He was wanted in Sweden for an interview on the allegations. This request has been dropped.
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@DaveD - No, the investigation has been dropped because of Mr. Assange himself not making himself available to go to Sweden. He could leave of his own will and return, or agree with Ecuador to be extradited. If the accused does not show up in court, the case can't go forward. The prosecutor's hands are tied by the law.
And by the way, the evidence points to Assange's guilt.
And by the way, the evidence points to Assange's guilt.
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"In Britain, he still faces a warrant for failing to appear in court, and the London police said on Friday that they would arrest Mr. Assange, who has consistently maintained his innocence, if he tried to leave the embassy."
Exactly how was this not politics all along?
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www.rimaregas.com
Exactly how was this not politics all along?
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www.rimaregas.com
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Not showing up for a REQUIRED court date in London is not politics but law. He could show up still and a case dropped after the fact. One only need to remember Randy Weaver who the FBI went after because of his refusal for a court date on a case that he later won, and some in his family were killed in a confrontation. By LAW one is obligated to show up in court when asked on cases that they could later win. Its standard procedure in most countries even as to small motor vehicle violations. Don't pay your fine for parking violations and don't show up for court to fight the ticket a warrant is issued for your arrest.They don't come looking for YOU but if stooped for something else your nonappearance will show up and you will be arrested. Not showing up is law breaking. Also the Sweden didn't drop the case because of some new found evidence as to his innocence but because "Marianne Ny, the chief prosecutor in Sweden, made clear that the authorities were not pronouncing Mr. Assange innocent but because of the likelihood that Sweden will never get to try the case because of Ecuador's non compliance. Marianne Ny, made clear that the authorities were not pronouncing Mr. Assange innocent. "“I can conclude, based on the evidence, that probable cause for this crime still exists,”
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Sweden could have gotten this over 4 years ago if they had agreed to interview him in London but THEY refused until over 3 years later. As a Swede I can tell you your logic is rubbish., It was Swedish legal precedents that were broken and the EU and UN found for Assange for this very reason, which of course you carefully forgot to mention as you deliberately paint a false picture of legal procedure and declared him guilty despite this NOT being proved.
We go by innocent until proven guilty, The case was reopened because of a request to do so by then SOS Hillary Clinton, a totally corrupt and anti legal procedure because he revealed truths embarrassing ot our war crimes and Elite corruption (inc DNC election sabotage; see Debbie Wasserman Schultz; proven! thanks to wikileaks) .You support compounding injustice and cover up for lies all the while supporting anti democratic Elite driven prosecutions ala USSR 'show trials'.
We go by innocent until proven guilty, The case was reopened because of a request to do so by then SOS Hillary Clinton, a totally corrupt and anti legal procedure because he revealed truths embarrassing ot our war crimes and Elite corruption (inc DNC election sabotage; see Debbie Wasserman Schultz; proven! thanks to wikileaks) .You support compounding injustice and cover up for lies all the while supporting anti democratic Elite driven prosecutions ala USSR 'show trials'.
Thank you for this excellent response.
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