London -  A United Nations human rights panel has sided with WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in his long-running battle with Swedish and British authorities, saying he should be freed immediately and compensated for the years he has lost.

The U.N. Working Group on Arbitrary Detention, which falls under the offices of the U.N. human rights chief, said Assange has been “arbitrarily detained” by Britain and Sweden since December 2010, when he was first sought for questioning on allegations of sexual misconduct.

The panel’s recommendation was immediately rejected by Swedish and British officials who said Assange’s legal situation is unchanged. He remains in the Embassy of Ecuador in London, where he sought refuge more than three years ago.

Speaking by video link from the embassy, Assange told a news conference the finding that he has been unlawfully detained is a significant victory that completely vindicates him. He said it brought a smile to his face.... Read More: VIN