US slams Wikileaks for distributing classified information

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BANGKOK, Dec 3 -- The United States slammed WikiLeaks for distribute classified information via its website as it could directly affect the security and safety of the people in the leaked document, according to Walter M Braunohler, information officer of the US Embassy in Bangkok.

WikiLeaks revealed a secret US diplomatic cable saying that US ambassador to Bangkok Eric G John warned Thai Prime Minister Abhisit Vejjajiva last year that the alleged Russian arms dealer Viktor Bout's associates tried to bribe concerned people to prevent extradition of the Russian businessman to the United States.

Asked whether the US government intentionally leaked the information to distract public attention on its failed performance, Mr Braunohler only said that the US government would like to strongly denounce the WikiLeaks for illegally publicising classified information that could directly affect the security and safety of the people in the leaked document.

Mr Braunohler's comments came after he accompanied Mr John to meet Mr Abhisit at Government House to bid farewell from his post as he officially working as US ambassador to Thailand last day on Friday.

The US Information Officer said that the WikiLeaks issues was not on agenda for talking and the Mr John departure was not related to the WikiLeaks as he has completed his three year term in Thailand.

The new ambassador is Kristie A Kenney, a career member of the US foreign service. She most recently served as the US ambassador to the Philippines.

According to WikiLeaks, Mr John also told Thai prime minister that "bribery had infected the Bout proceedings'' and warned that false testimony could lead the Thai court to "possibly deny extradition." He also advised US President Barack Obama to telephone the Thai premier directly on the matter.

Mr Braunohler also said that the goverment and the embassy could not comment on the leaked document but the diplomats have done their jobs and it is a normal practice for them to meet the government officials or other officials and report to Washington.

He said the US and Thailand's relations are stronger and stronger during the past 177 years and good ties would remain unchanged. (MCOT online news)