Although the timing of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange’s arrest and proposed extradition to Sweden seemed a tad conspicuous, what with the site’s recent big release that angered and embarrassed several powers that be around the globe, Sweden is denying that political pressure played a part in his apprehension.

One Jonas Björk, correspondent for TV4, echoed the sentiment expressed by Sweden’s justice department: “I believe the politicians when they say they haven’t had any pressure from abroad,” he said Thursday. –KA

The Guardian:

Swedish media and politicians have rejected speculation that political pressure from abroad was exerted on the country’s justice system to secure Julian Assange’s arrest and extradition. Martin Valfridsson, a spokesman for the Swedish minister of justice, Beatrice Ask, said yesterday the suggestion was “completely wrong”.

“As far as I know no such pressure has been put on Sweden,” he said.

Jonas Björk, a correspondent with the TV4 channel, said the idea that the original rape allegations were a part of a conspiracy to attack the WikiLeaks founder stretched credibility.

“For it to have been a honey-trap operation would have been so complicated that I can’t see how it could have been pulled off; if it was, then I tip my hat to the CIA,” he said.

Read more

WAIT, BEFORE YOU GO…

If you're reading this, you probably already know that non-profit, independent journalism is under threat worldwide. Independent news sites are overshadowed by larger heavily funded mainstream media that inundate us with hype and noise that barely scratch the surface. We believe that our readers deserve to know the full story. Truthdig writers bravely dig beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that tells you what’s really happening and who’s rolling up their sleeves to do something about it.

Like you, we believe a well-informed public that doesn’t have blind faith in the status quo can help change the world. Your contribution of as little as $5 monthly or $35 annually will make you a groundbreaking member and lays the foundation of our work.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG