Legal Battle Intensifies: US Won’t Let Venezuela Pay for Maduro’s Defence

New York – The legal fight surrounding former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has taken a sharp turn, with his defence team accusing the United States government of stopping Venezuela from covering his legal costs. This move, they say, could harm his right to a fair trial as he faces serious drug trafficking and weapons charges in a federal court here.

Maduro’s Capture and the Charges Against Him

Nicolás Maduro, who led Venezuela for over a decade, was taken into custody by American forces in a bold operation last month. This happened in January 2026, marking a dramatic end to his time in power amid years of strained relations between the two countries. He was quickly brought to the United States and charged in the Southern District of New York with running a massive drug smuggling ring and other related crimes. These accusations date back to indictments from 2020, but his arrest has brought them front and centre.

Alongside Maduro, his wife, Cilia Flores, known as the First Lady, was also arrested. Both are now held in a New York jail while waiting for their trial. Maduro has entered a not guilty plea, calling himself a “prisoner of war” in a strong statement against what he sees as an unfair seizure. The charges paint him as the head of a group that flooded the US with illegal drugs, using his position to protect shipments and arm traffickers. Prosecutors claim this operation, dubbed the Cartel of the Suns, involved top officials and brought in huge profits while hurting communities abroad.

Defence Lawyer’s Claims of US Interference

Barry Pollack, Maduro’s main defence lawyer, has raised alarm in a letter to the court dated 20 February 2026. This document, now part of the public record since 25 February, details how the US Treasury Department’s Office of Foreign Assets Control – often called OFAC – is blocking payments from Venezuela. According to Pollack, Venezuelan law and long-standing customs require the government to pay for the legal defence of its president and first lady, especially in cases tied to their official roles.

The issue started on 9 January 2026, when OFAC first approved a special exception to US sanctions. This licence would have let Venezuela send money to cover Maduro’s legal bills without breaking the strict financial rules imposed on the country. But just under three hours later, the department changed the licence, pulling back the approval for Maduro’s fees while keeping it in place for Flores. Pollack says no reason was given for this quick reversal, leaving the defence team in a tough spot.

This action falls under the Trump administration’s tough stance on Venezuela, which has included heavy sanctions to pressure the regime. The president has often spoken out against Maduro, labelling his government a sponsor of terror and linking it to drug networks. By blocking these funds, the US seems to be tightening the noose even further, making it harder for Maduro to mount a strong defence.

Impact on Maduro’s Right to Counsel

Pollack argues that this block goes against Maduro’s basic rights under the US Constitution. Specifically, he points to the Sixth Amendment, which promises everyone the right to a lawyer of their choice in criminal cases. Without the funds from Venezuela, Maduro – who claims he cannot afford private counsel on his own – might have to rely on a court-appointed lawyer. This could weaken his case, as he would lose the team he picked, who know the details of his situation best.

The lawyer stresses that Maduro has a real expectation that his home country would handle these costs, just as it does for other leaders in trouble. Blocking this payment, Pollack says, directly meddles with Maduro’s ability to defend himself properly. He has asked the judge overseeing the case, US District Judge Alvin Hellerstein, to step in and address the issue. Hellerstein, based in Manhattan, has a history of handling high-profile international cases and will likely weigh in soon on whether this affects the trial’s fairness.

For Flores, the situation is different. Her legal fees are still approved under the amended licence, allowing her defence to proceed without this hurdle. This difference has sparked questions about why Maduro is being treated separately, adding to claims of uneven justice.

Broader Context of US-Venezuela Tensions

This legal snag is part of a much bigger clash between the United States and Venezuela. For years, Washington has accused Maduro’s government of corruption, human rights abuses, and ties to illegal activities. Sanctions have frozen billions in Venezuelan assets, cut off oil sales – the country’s main income source – and isolated it from global finance. These measures aim to push for change, supporting opposition figures and calling for free elections.

Maduro’s arrest came after a period of rising pressure, including military moves and diplomatic pushes under President Trump. The US sees Venezuela as a key spot in its fight against drug cartels, with claims that officials there help move cocaine from Colombia through to North America. On the flip side, Maduro and his supporters view the charges as a political attack, meant to topple a leader who stands against American influence in Latin America.

The case also involves other Venezuelan figures, like military leaders and business people, who face similar accusations. Trials like this often drag on due to complex evidence from secret operations and international witnesses. With Maduro now in the mix, it could become one of the most watched legal battles in recent times, drawing attention from around the world.

Potential Outcomes and Next Steps in Court

As the case moves forward, the focus will be on whether Judge Hellerstein rules that the fee block is unfair. If he agrees with Pollack, he might order the US government to allow the payments or find another way to ensure Maduro gets proper representation. On the other hand, prosecutors could argue that sanctions are there for a reason and that Maduro should not benefit from funds tied to his alleged crimes.
Maduro’s team is pushing for a quick resolution, as delays could hurt their preparation. The full trial might not start for months, giving time for appeals and negotiations. In the meantime, Maduro remains behind bars, with limited contact and under tight security due to his status.

This development has stirred reactions in Venezuela, where the new leadership is dealing with the fallout of Maduro’s removal. Many there see the US actions as overreach, while others hope it leads to better times. For the average person, it highlights how international politics can tangle with justice, affecting rights even for controversial figures.

Long-Term Effects on International Relations

Looking ahead, this row over legal fees could strain ties further or open doors for talks. If resolved in Maduro’s favour, it might set a example for how the US handles foreign leaders in court. But if the block stands, it could fuel anti-US feelings in the region, making cooperation on issues like migration and drugs harder.

Experts say fair trials are key to upholding US values, even for enemies. By ensuring Maduro gets a proper defence, the system shows strength, not weakness. As this legal battle heats up, it reminds everyone of the fine line between punishment and justice in global affairs.

🔴Central News Special Edition | Issue 129: Download the Latest Print and E-Edition | Ngwathe Citizen Forum: Council Now Would Undermine Progress🔴

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