Chelsea Manning

Given that Manning still faces a $256,000 fine for refusing to testify about WikiLeaks to a grand jury, said one reporter, "she will now struggle with destitution and poverty, but at least she will no longer be in a jail cell."

Manning's legal team said her actions "evidence the strength of her convictions, as well as the profound harm she continues to suffer as a result of her 'civil' confinement."

"Using the draconian wartime powers of the Espionage Act against Assange undermines journalists's rights and sets dangerous precedents that cast journalists and publishers as criminals."

"No matter how much you punish me, I will remain confident in my decision," said the whistleblower.

"My long-standing objection to the immoral practice of throwing people in jail without charge or trial, for the sole purpose of forcing them to testify before a secret, government-run investigative panel, remains strong."

In a letter to the U.S. government, the special rapporteur on torture called for the immediate release of the whistleblower.