Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York courtroom on Thursday to challenge their drug trafficking indictments. The couple, who pleaded not guilty, are accused of orchestrating kidnappings, beatings, and murders related to their alleged drug trafficking operations.
Their defense team argued that Maduro should be allowed to use Venezuelan government funds to pay for his legal costs. Judge Alvin Hellerstein questioned the prosecution's stance on blocking these funds, suggesting that the government's national security interests do not outweigh the defendants' right to a fair defense. The judge did not immediately rule on the issue and did not set a timeline for a decision.
Supporters and opponents rallied outside the courthouse, with protesters chanting and waving signs. Inside, Maduro and Flores wore jail uniforms and used headphones for translation. Both are currently detained at a Brooklyn detention center and have not requested bail.
In Caracas, hundreds gathered to protest the U.S. action, calling for Maduro's release. Despite being deposed, Maduro retains some support in Venezuela, with murals and billboards demanding his return. However, he has been gradually removed from the government under acting President Delcy Rodríguez.
U.S. President Donald Trump accused Maduro of being a major drug trafficker and suggested further charges might be forthcoming. The couple was captured in a January raid on their Caracas home.