WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange appeared in court in Saipan after being released on a plea deal, ending a 14-year legal ordeal. Assange has landed in Australia after the US court deal. He pleaded guilty to espionage charges related to publishing US military secrets. District Judge Ramona Manglona sentenced him to time served and declared him a free man. Assange's plea deal requires him to destroy information provided to WikiLeaks. The process led to emotional reactions, including tears from his wife, Stella Assange. In another courtroom development, Assange criticized the Espionage Act while accepting the legality of publishing classified information. Representatives described the day of his release as historic, with Australia's Prime Minister supporting the positive outcome. Assange will not provide a statement following the ruling. Former Ecuadorean diplomat Fidel Narvaez expressed joy at Assange's release and highlighted the impact of his case on press freedom. Legal representatives for Assange criticized his treatment and emphasized the importance of his disclosures. The release marks the end of a protracted legal battle for Assange, who faced accusations and extradition requests. Supporters see him as a whistleblower, while detractors argue his actions jeopardized national security.