Maduro Seeks Dismissal of U.S. Drug Charges

Venezuelan leader claims blocked funds violate his right to legal defense, seeks dismissal of drug-trafficking charges.

Maduro Seeks Dismissal of U.S. Drug Charges Over Blocked Legal Funds

Ousted Venezuelan president Nicolás Maduro asked a federal judge in New York to dismiss drug‑trafficking charges, saying the U.S. government is blocking funds that Venezuela wants to use to pay for his legal defense.

In a court filing today, Maduro’s lawyer Barry Pollack said the U.S. Treasury Department revoked permission for Venezuela to cover defense fees, violating Maduro’s Sixth Amendment right to choose counsel. Pollack argued this requires the case to be dismissed.

Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, both indicted on narco‑terrorism and drug trafficking charges, pleaded not guilty in January and remain jailed in New York. Pollack warned he may have to step down if the funds remain blocked, leaving Maduro without legal representation.