Ross Ulbricht made an impactful debut as a free man at the Bitcoin 2025 conference held in Las Vegas, marking his first public appearance following a lengthy incarceration for his involvement in the Silk Road darknet marketplace. Ulbricht’s release came after a pardon from former U.S. President Trump. An emotional Ulbricht expressed his profound gratitude to the Bitcoin community for their unwavering support throughout his ordeal.
In 2015, a federal court sentenced Ulbricht to a staggering double life plus 40 years in prison without the possibility of parole. Reflecting on his harrowing time behind bars, Ulbricht shared, “there were days when I thought I would die in that awful cage,” but he emphasized his resilience in seeking moments of joy amidst the despair. Addressing conference attendees, he remarked that the idea for which he risked everything has blossomed into a significant movement, one that ultimately played a role in his release.
“There is still more freedom to be won”
Ulbricht recounted that after his previous appearance at the Bitcoin conference in 2021 via a phone call from prison, he faced punishment in solitary confinement under strict surveillance. However, he found the experience rewarding, as it symbolized a brief escape from confinement. “Today is the mirror image of that,” he stated.
Describing the emotions tied to reclaiming his freedom, he said, “winning your freedom feels as amazing as losing it feels awful.” He urged the audience, stating that the fight is not finished and that there remains much work ahead. “Freedom is worth the struggle,” he emphasized.
Ross is catching up with latest technology
Emerging from what he characterizes as a “time capsule,” Ulbricht is now navigating the advancements in technology that have occurred during his imprisonment. He reflected, “I effectively went into a time capsule in 2013 and now I’m coming out like Rip Van Winkle. I mean, just a few months ago when I walked out of prison, I’d never seen a drone. I had never experienced VR or chatted with AI.”
Commenting on the evolution of the cryptocurrency landscape since reaching the height of Silk Road, he noted that he launched the platform when there was only one exchange to buy Bitcoin. “Now, it seems like every app I download has a built-in wallet with one-click buying options.” He remarked on the explosion of new cryptocurrencies and blockchains, describing the developments as “nuts,” and highlighted the role of decentralized finance (DeFi), Web 3, and artificial intelligence in helping him navigate this new reality.
A compelling video montage played before his address captured Ulbricht as he adjusted to life outside of prison, showcasing moments such as walking on the beach, learning to surf, and sharing tender moments with his wife.
“Freedom, decentralization and unity”
In concluding his speech, Ulbricht emphasized three foundational principles essential for the Bitcoin community’s growth: freedom, decentralization, and unity. Reflecting on his experiences in prison, he observed that authorities prefer to see prisoners divided, as it makes them easier to control. Yet, when inmates united, they garnered attention and respect from administration, he noted. “When we all went on hunger strike together, they showed up and listened.”
Ulbricht encouraged the cryptocurrency community to view each other as allies rather than adversaries. “So long as we can agree that we deserve freedom and that decentralization is how we secure it, then we can be united, we can have each other’s backs, just like you had mine—freedom, decentralization, unity. Stay true to these principles, and the future is ours.”
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