Wikileaks founder Julian Assange, who is facing extradition from Britain to the US on espionage charges, is being treated in a manner that is putting his life at risk, an independent United Nations (UN) rights expert said on Friday.

Nils Melzer is a special rapporteur on torture and other cruel, inhumane, or degrading treatment. He believes Assange’s continued exposure to psychological torture will end up costing him his life. Melzer visited Assange in May of 2019 and demanded immediate measures of protection for the Wikileaks founder’s health and dignity.

In his appeal, Melzer urged London not to allow Assange’s extradition to the US, demanding he be released and allowed to recover his health and rebuild his life.