Sweden has decided to drop the rape investigation into Wikileaks founder Julian Assange.
He fears extradition to Sweden would lead to extradition to the US where he is wanted over leaks.
The plaintiff in the rape case was "shocked" by the decision, her lawyer said, and maintained her accusations against Mr Assange, Agence France-Presse reported.
Sweden did not expect Ecuador's co-operation in formally notifying Mr Assange of the allegations against him, a necessary step in proceeding with the case, she added.
But she said: "If he were to return to Sweden before the statute of limitation on this case expires in August 2020, the preliminary investigation could be resumed.".
It went on: "Now that the situation has changed and the Swedish authorities have discontinued their investigation into that matter, Mr Assange remains wanted for a much less serious offence.
He cited a comment by new US Attorney General Jeff Sessions that the arrest of Mr Assange would be "a priority". »