The jailing of WikiLeaks founder Julian Assange in London — and the drawn-out extradition battle that likely will ensue — are the latest steps in a global effort to corral the website, which has angered governments and corporations with its publication of secret documents.

Mr. Assange on Tuesday appeared in a British court on a European Union warrant, issued by Swedish authorities who want him to face sexual assault charges in their country. He said he would fight extradition and was denied bail; he will be held until a full hearing next week, the BBC reported.

The Swedish Justice Ministry has said on its website that Mr. Assange faces charges of rape, sexual molestation and coercion, but it has released no details. Press reports in Sweden have said the charges stem from sexual encounters Mr. Assange had with two women in August, but he has said the encounters were consensual and has painted the case as part of an elaborate conspiracy to undermine WikiLeaks...