Summary
In a US court, prosecutors claim Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cillia Flores, used Venezuelan government money improperly. A judge is deciding who will cover their legal fees, as US sanctions block their access to Venezuelan funds. Maduro and Flores face charges of narco-terrorism and other crimes.
Key Facts
- Nicolas Maduro and Cillia Flores are facing charges in a US court, including narco-terrorism and weapons offenses.
- Prosecutors say Maduro "plundered" Venezuela's wealth and should not use its funds for his legal defense.
- US sanctions prevent Maduro from accessing Venezuelan government funds for legal fees.
- The judge, Alvin Hellerstein, will issue a ruling on the legal fees at a later date.
- Maduro was arrested in Caracas and brought to New York in January.
- Maduro denies the charges and claims he was kidnapped.
- Sanctions require a special license to use Venezuelan funds, initially granted and then revoked by the US.
- The US Government claims Maduro has access to personal funds for legal defense, which Maduro denies.
