Rafael Correa says he hopes to announce decision soon on whether he will grant political asylum to WikiLeaks founder

This article is more than 8 years old

This article is more than 8 years old

Ecuador's president, Rafael Correa, says he hopes to be able to announce this week whether he will grant political asylum to WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange.

Correa told state TV a large amount of material about international law needed to be examined to make a responsible, informed decision.

He said he expected to have the latest reports by Wednesday.

Assange took refuge in Ecuador's embassy in London on 19 June to avoid extradition to Sweden, where he is wanted for questioning for alleged sexual misconduct.

Ecuador is concerned Assange could run the risk of being extradited to the US and possibly face the death sentence there. Assange's supporters believe he has been secretly indicted in the US.