U.S. Blocks Venezuela From Paying Maduro Legal Fees in Drug Cases

The United States government has barred Venezuela from using state funds to cover former President Nicolás Maduro’s legal expenses in his federal drug trafficking case in New York, according to a court filing by his attorney.

Defense lawyer Barry Pollack informed U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein that the U.S. Treasury Department had issued a special license permitting the Venezuelan government to finance Maduro’s defense. The authorization was later revoked without public explanation.

Pollack stated that under Venezuelan law and established practice, the government is responsible for paying the legal costs of a sitting or former head of state. He argued that Maduro does not have the personal resources required to fund a complex criminal defense trial in the United States.

• U.S. blocks Venezuelan government from funding Nicolás Maduro’s legal defense in NY
• Maduro’s legal fees fight draws on revoked U.S. Treasury sanctions licence
• Venezuelan law obliges government to pay defense costs, lawyer argues in court

Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, pleaded not guilty in January to charges alleging involvement in narcotics trafficking. Prosecutors claim Maduro used his position to coordinate drug shipments intended for the United States. Both remain in custody in New York as they await trial. The charges carry the possibility of lengthy prison sentences if convictions are secured.

Pollack said the Treasury’s decision blocks the use of Venezuelan funds despite the earlier license. He indicated he may seek court intervention, citing concerns related to the Sixth Amendment right to counsel. Flores’ legal representation could be addressed separately, though no final determination has been disclosed.

Maduro’s detention followed a U.S. operation tied to broader U.S.–Venezuela relations and efforts to address alleged drug-related offenses involving senior officials. Since his arrest, Venezuela’s leadership structure has shifted, with senior authorities assuming interim responsibilities.

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The dispute over legal funding adds another layer to a politically sensitive case involving international law, sanctions policy, and ongoing federal court proceedings.