The oligarchy's desire for Assange's destruction is in direct proportion to their fear of transparency and openness. Those with the most to hide hate him the most. Those who fear Julian Assange fear the people.
He has taken on properties associated with the sacred. The mass media, for the most part, refuse to say his name or acknowledge his existence. They are reluctant to look at him. Yet the great power holders seem acutely aware of his existence. It's like the air around him is thin. We all know this stasis cannot last. We're waiting.
Among those of us who are ordinary enough to discuss his situation openly, the voices saying they cannot understand "why doesn't he just walk outside and leave" are either very ignorant or evil.
It's hard to imagine how he will escape, but if I possessed a fortune, I'd give it to anyone who could get him out of there and take him into a safe, secure, livable situation. I picture helicopters defending helicopters filling the air above his quarters and a getaway jet awaiting, protected by every kind of armament there is.
If he falls into the clutches of the empire, then at that moment I will welcome its destruction.
As always, thank you Caitlin. I hope the Ecuador you knew and loved is still viable and still cares.