Former Venezuelan leader in U.S. Court amid sanctions and drug case dispute

Former Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro appeared before a New York federal court on Thursday, seeking dismissal of a major drug trafficking indictment while challenging restrictions on funding his legal defence .

Maduro, 63, and his wife Cilia Flores have both pleaded not guilty to charges that include narco-terrorism and large-scale cocaine trafficking into the United States. The couple has been held in a Brooklyn detention facility since their arrest earlier this year and has not applied for bail.

The hearing before U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein focused on a dispute over legal expenses . Maduro’s legal team argues that U.S. sanctions unfairly block Venezuelan state funds from being used to pay for his defence, violating his constitutional rights . Prosecutors, however, maintain that while he may use personal funds, he cannot access money tied to a sanctioned government .

According to the indictment, Maduro allegedly worked with drug cartels and members of the military to facilitate large cocaine shipments to the U.S., using violence and intimidation to maintain the network. If convicted, both he and Flores could face life imprisonment .

The case comes amid shifting political dynamics in Venezuela. Acting president Delcy Rodríguez has restructured key institutions and replaced several Maduro loyalists, signalling a gradual transition of power . Despite this, Maduro continues to retain support among sections of the population.

Venezuela also faces a prolonged economic crisis , marked by high inflation and low wages , leaving many struggling to afford basic necessities.

Maduro’s trial is expected to carry significant legal and geopolitical implications.