Video: WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange's plane lands in Canberra; Australia PM lauds US, UK

WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange on Wednesday (Jun 26) landed in Canberra where a large contingent of media reporters had gathered. Upon landing in Australia, he greeted his supporters and kissed his wife.

As perreports, he mayaddress the media at 9:15 pm (local time) or 4:45 pm IST.

Earlier, WikiLeaks had shared an image of Assange on the plane, showing him talking to his wife Stella over the phone.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said he was satisfied with what his government had achieved for Assange.

"Assange’s case has dragged on for too long. I have said repeatedly that there was nothing to be gained by his continued incarceration," he said.

After Assange's landing, the PM addressed the media and said he had a word with the free speech champion and he will now be reunited with his family. The prime minister also expressed gratitude towards the US and UK.

"Earlier tonight, I was pleased to speak with Mr Assange to welcome him home. And had the opportunity to ask about his health and to have my first discussion with him," Albanese said.

"His safe returned to Australia we know, means so much to his family. His wife Stella, his children, who he is looking forward to playing with like any dad and his parents, Christine and John," he added.

"It is yet another example of why mature, calibrated, and consistent engagement with our partners is the best way to get results in Australia’s national interest"

Earlier in the day, Assange appeared in a US court and pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiring to obtain and disclose classified US national defence information.

The plea deal, which has ended years of legal battles and made him a free man, was entered at a US District Court on the Northern Mariana Islands.

As Judge Ramona Manglona adjourned the hearing, she declared Assange would walk from here a free man.

"On the basis of this very serious espionage case against you ... I am in fact sentencing you to a period of time served," the judge said, adding, "I am not imposing any period of supervised release".

“With this pronouncement, it appears you will be able to walk out of this courtroom a free man. I hope there will be some peace restored,” Judge Manglona added.

Under the plea deal, the 52-year-old will be required to destroy information provided to WikiLeaks.

(With inputs from agencies)