A federal judge in New York has set 1 June 2027 as the starting date for the trial of former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his spouse, Cilia Flores. The couple faces charges related to narcotics and weapons trafficking, allegations they maintain are false.
US authorities apprehended the pair during a clandestine operation in Caracas on 3 January. They were subsequently transported to New York to stand trial. Judge Alvin Hellerstein has scheduled an intermediate hearing for 17 November to address preliminary motions.
Defence attorney Barry Pollack intends to challenge the proceedings by invoking sovereign immunity, asserting that his client is protected as a former head of state. During the initial hearing, security was heightened, with officials warning observers against any outbursts. While the courtroom remained largely orderly, Maduro offered a brief wave to the gallery before being escorted away by US Marshals.
Outside the courthouse, the atmosphere was polarized. Demonstrators from the Anti-War Action Network protested the US military’s intervention, characterizing the legal proceedings as illegitimate. Conversely, some Venezuelan expatriates welcomed the prosecution, blaming Maduro for the systematic decline of their home nation.
