Verdict on Assange extradition expected Feb 24February 12, 2011 - 11:47 AMT PanARMENIAN.Net - Attorneys for WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange insisted in the closing arguments of his extradition hearing that the Swedish arrest warrant was not valid, adding that media leaks about the sexual assault allegations against their client had created a "toxic atmosphere" that ensured he could not get a fair trial in Sweden, the Washington Post reports. British prosecutors representing Sweden dismissed those arguments as "hyperbole" and said the seriousness of the allegations merited his dispatch to Stockholm. Addressing defense claims that Swedish officials had maligned their client in the press, prosecutor Clare Montgomery shot back, "Those who seek to fan the flames of a media firestorm can't be surprised when they get burnt." Thus closed the first of what is likely to be a protracted set of hearings and appeals in Britain as the 39-year-old Australian battles the attempt to extradite him to Sweden, where he is wanted for questioning for alleged sexual molestation, unlawful coercion and rape. Assange has denied the allegations. After 21/2 days of arguments this week, Judge Howard Riddle is expected to issue his verdict Feb. 24. But given the various routes of appeal, he conceded the "inevitability" of a challenge, perhaps delaying a resolution for months. Top stories Authorities said a total of 192 Azerbaijani troops were killed and 511 were wounded during Azerbaijan’s offensive. In 2023, the Azerbaijani government will increase the country’s defense budget by more than 1.1 billion manats ($650 million). The bill, published on Monday, is designed to "eliminate the shortcomings of an unreasonably broad interpretation of the key concept of "compatriot". The earthquake caused a temporary blackout, damaged many buildings and closed a number of rural roads. Partner news | Titus, Bilirakis lead legislation to sanction Azerbaijani war criminals Representatives Dina Titus (D-NV) and Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) have introduced the bipartisan legislation. Armenia: Defense Ministry warns against involving army in political processes The Ministry’s statement came after a video surfaced online, showing soldiers joining the protests in Tavush. Scholz hopes Armenia-Azerbaijan peace treaty will be signed this year German Chancellor Olaf Scholz hopes that a peace treaty between Armenia and Azerbaijan will be signed this year. Ucom equips four bus stops in Ijevan with free Wi-Fi Ucom now provides free Wi-Fi coverage in smart bus stops in four communities of Ijevan. |