Judge Hellerstein Questions Venezuela Sanctions Blocking Maduro Defense Funds

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in court, arguing U.S. sanctions violate their constitutional rights by blocking Venezuelan government funds for their defense. The U.S. government previously blocked funds due to sanctions against Venezuela, driven by allegations of cracking down on free speech and plundering wealth.

Since Maduro's capture in January, the U.S. and Venezuela reestablished diplomatic relations, Washington eased oil industry sanctions, and a chargé d'affaires was dispatched to Caracas. Judge Hellerstein suggested the argument for blocking funds has changed, emphasizing the right to defense.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Wirshba argued allowing the funds would undermine sanctions. Maduro's lawyer, Barry Pollack, stated public defenders would be overwhelmed and that a third party is ready to fund the defense.

The judge did not issue a ruling but indicated Pollack could revisit a request to throw out the case if the Treasury Department does not relent. President Donald Trump stated Maduro would receive a fair trial.

Maduro and Flores face life in prison if convicted of drug trafficking, kidnapping, beatings, and murders. They remain jailed in Brooklyn, having pleaded not guilty.