A judge in New York considered whether to allow ex-Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, to use Venezuelan government funds for their legal defense. Prosecutors argue Maduro ‘plundered’ Venezuela’s wealth, while the judge emphasized the right to a fair defense.
Maduro faces charges including narco-terrorism and arms possession after being seized in a nighttime raid in Caracas. The US denies Maduro access to Venezuelan funds due to sanctions, prompting the legal battle. No trial date has been set.
Public sentiment remains divided in Venezuela, with some hoping for Maduro’s release and others demanding accountability for his alleged crimes.