Trump Administration Opposes Maduro's Request to Dismiss Drug Trafficking Case

The deposed Venezuelan leader argued the U.S. blocked his access to funds for legal fees.

Mar. 14, 2026 at 8:08pm

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The Trump administration has opposed a request by former Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, to dismiss their U.S. criminal case. Maduro and Flores asked the court last month to dismiss the case, arguing the government improperly prevented them from using Venezuelan government funds to pay for their defense. However, the U.S. government argued that Maduro and Flores remain free to use their personal funds to pay their legal fees, but not money controlled by a separately sanctioned Venezuelan government entity.

Why it matters

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and the Maduro regime in Venezuela, as well as the use of sanctions and asset seizures as tools in the fight against drug trafficking and corruption. The outcome could have significant implications for Maduro's ability to mount a legal defense against the charges.

The details

Maduro and Flores were charged with conspiracy to import cocaine and possession of machine guns and destructive devices. The indictment alleges that they have 'for decades, partnered with some of the most violent and prolific drug traffickers and narco-terrorists in the world, and relied on corrupt officials throughout the region, to distribute tons of cocaine to the United States.' Maduro is currently being detained in the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.

  • Maduro and Flores asked the court to dismiss the case last month.
  • The Trump administration filed its opposition to the request on Friday, March 14, 2026.

The players

Nicolás Maduro

The deposed former president of Venezuela who is facing U.S. criminal charges.

Cilia Flores

The wife of Nicolás Maduro, who is also facing U.S. criminal charges.

Barry Pollack

The attorney representing Maduro and Flores.

U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC)

The agency that administers U.S. sanctions against foreign entities, including denying Maduro and Flores' request to use Venezuelan government funds to pay their legal fees.

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What they’re saying

“The licenses were required to authorize funds transfers because of sanctions against Venezuela.”

— Barry Pollack, Attorney for Maduro and Flores (nbcwashington.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to grant Maduro and Flores' request to dismiss the charges.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and the Maduro regime in Venezuela, as well as the use of sanctions and asset seizures as tools in the fight against drug trafficking and corruption. The outcome could have significant implications for Maduro's ability to mount a legal defense against the charges.