Yep and another possibility is the fact that this isn't a good look for the US in general. The US is the big dog still but they can't do whatever they want without a cost. 

I think so too. It also was a no win for the US. A trial would have exposed all the embarrassing shit again. 

siggy47

The fact that the US had to use a plea deal for time served, letting Assange go immediately, is a strong sign that they were concerned they wouldn't win in court in a real trial.