Julian Assange’s wife, Stella Assange, revealed on BBC Radio 4’s Today programme that their two children, currently in Australia with her, remain unaware that their father is about to be freed. They have only been told to expect a “big surprise” in Australia.
Stella explained that the arrangements for Assange’s release were uncertain over the past 72 hours, prompting her and the children to hastily pack and fly to Australia on Sunday.
“We were heading to the airport, and I told them there was a big surprise waiting for them,” she said. “I mentioned we were going to visit family – their cousin, their grandfather, and others. They still don’t know the full story.”
Stella stated the difficulty in managing the excitement and potential outbursts of a five and seven-year-old, especially given the sensitivity of the situation. The judge’s final approval of Assange’s release required careful handling of information.
The children, who have never seen their father outside of Belmarsh prison, will be informed about his release before they reunite with him. Stella assured listeners that the children are thrilled to be in Australia, eagerly awaiting the big surprise.
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