Captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro has asked a U.S. federal judge to dismiss the narco‑terrorism and drug trafficking indictment against him, arguing that his constitutional rights are being violated. His defense attorney, Barry Pollack, claims that the U.S. government blocked the Venezuelan government from paying legal fees, undermining Maduro’s right to counsel of choice and making any future verdict “constitutionally suspect.” Pollack warned he may have to withdraw from the case if the motion is denied.
Funding Dispute at the Heart of the Motion
Maduro’s lawyers contend that the U.S. Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) initially granted — then abruptly revoked — a license that would have allowed Venezuela to fund his legal defense. They argue this reversal interferes with his Sixth Amendment right to effective counsel, especially since Maduro allegedly has no personal funds for defense and Venezuelan law would ordinarily require the state to cover such costs.
Context of the Charges
Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were taken into U.S. custody in January 2026 and have pleaded not guilty to drug‑related charges, including narco‑terrorism and cocaine trafficking. Prosecutors allege Maduro used his position to support drug trafficking operations over many years. The case stems from a superseding U.S. indictment and extradition following a U.S. military capture.
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