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Nicolás Maduro Court Hearing: Dismissal Bid and Health Updates

During their second New York court hearing, ousted Venezuelan leaders Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores sought dismissal of narco-terrorism charges, alleging US interference in their defense. Both appeared thinner, with Maduro limping and Flores facing heart health issues. Prosecutors accused them of plundering Venezuela's wealth and opposed government payment of legal fees, while the defense argued for such support. Judge Alvin Hellerstein indicated a quick ruling on fee payments but rejected case dismissal on that ground. Outside, President Trump vowed more cases, and Maduro's supporters rallied in Caracas. The hearing underscored the complex legal and political dimensions of the case.

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Nicolás Maduro Court Hearing: Dismissal Bid and Health Updates

Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores appeared in a New York federal court for their second hearing, with Maduro arguing for case dismissal due to alleged US interference, while both showed physical changes and health issues.

Second Hearing Details

  • Maduro and Flores were captured in a US raid in January and this is their second court appearance.
  • Maduro sought to dismiss narco-terrorism charges, claiming the US government is hindering his defense.

Courtroom Appearance

  • Both Maduro and Flores appeared thinner compared to the January hearing.
  • Maduro maintained a slight limp, attributed to injuries from the capture, and seemed less defiant, even joking with lawyers.
  • Flores was noted to be thinner, with her lawyer reporting delays in medical care for a heart condition and a pending echocardiogram; a previous bruise had cleared.
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Legal Arguments

  • Prosecution's Case: A federal prosecutor accused Maduro and Flores of "plundering the wealth of Venezuela" and opposed allowing Venezuela to pay their legal fees.
  • Defense's Position: Maduro's lawyer argued that the couple cannot afford legal fees and that the Venezuelan government should cover them, citing a "property interest" in foreign funds.

Judge's Inquiries

  • Judge Alvin Hellerstein questioned prosecutors on the use of sanctions for foreign policy and the availability of other funds for legal defense.
  • He promised a swift decision on whether to order the Trump administration to permit fee payments but stated he would not dismiss the case over this issue.

Outside the Courtroom

  • President Donald Trump announced that "other cases are going to be brought" against Maduro.
  • Venezuela's ruling party expressed solidarity, calling for defense of "legitimate rights."
  • Supporters held a rally at Bolívar Square in Caracas demanding Maduro's release.
  • Protesters outside the New York court included Venezuelans hoping for Maduro's punishment.

Next Steps

  • Judge Hellerstein is expected to rule soon on the legal fee payment issue.
  • The case continues with full charges pending.
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