Ross Ulbricht Advocates for Freedom, Decentralization, and Unity in Post-Prison Speech

While speaking at the Bitcoin 2025 conference in Las Vegas, Ross Ulbricht, the founder of the darknet marketplace Silk Road, delivered his first address after being released from prison, outlining three principles for the future: «freedom, decentralization, and unity.»

At the beginning of his speech, he expressed gratitude to former President Donald Trump and his supporters for their role in his liberation but noted, «As for [true] freedom, we have not yet achieved it. We still have more freedom to win.»

Addressing the crypto community, Ulbricht emphasized that these principles are vital components of the next technological leap that will liberate and empower people globally.

Using an analogy between Bitcoin and wasp nests, he shared a story about how he dealt with pests. He argued that wasps pose a significant threat to attackers, much like the supporters of Bitcoin, due to their freedom and decentralization. However, Ulbricht succeeded in destroying the nests because the insects did not coordinate their attacks when their kin were being exterminated.

During his time in prison, he also recognized the importance of unity, pointing out that the correctional system encourages divisions among inmates but shows respect when they act in solidarity.

«Thus, as long as we agree that we deserve freedom and that decentralization is a means to achieve it, people can come together. We can support each other, just as you have supported me,» Ulbricht added.

It is worth noting that on January 22, Trump granted clemency to Ulbricht, who was serving two life sentences. This initiative was part of the President’s campaign promises.

Subsequently, Coinbase’s product director, Conor Grogan, discovered 430 BTC in wallets believed to be linked to Ulbricht.