Maduro and wife to face US trial in June 2027 after dramatic arrest

Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, are set to stand trial in the United States next year after a federal judge scheduled proceedings to begin on June 1, 2027.

The couple were brought to New York in January following a controversial US operation in Caracas that led to their arrest. Both have pleaded not guilty to a series of drug- and weapons-related charges and continue to deny all allegations.

During a court hearing on Wednesday, Judge Alvin Hellerstein fixed a pre-trial conference for November 17, where lawyers are expected to argue several legal issues ahead of the trial.

Maduro’s defence team has indicated it will challenge the case by arguing that, as a former head of state, he is entitled to sovereign immunity, a legal doctrine that can protect national leaders from prosecution in foreign courts.

The high-profile case drew significant public attention, with supporters and critics of Maduro gathering outside the courthouse. Some protesters condemned the US operation that led to his arrest, describing the proceedings as politically motivated, while others welcomed the prosecution and accused the former Venezuelan leader of contributing to the country’s prolonged political and economic crisis.

Inside the courtroom, Maduro and Flores listened to proceedings through translation headsets as their lawyers conferred with the judge. The pair remain in US custody as preparations for what is expected to be one of the most closely watched international trials in recent years continue.

The case has further strained tensions between Washington and Caracas, with the circumstances surrounding Maduro’s arrest continuing to generate debate both in Venezuela and abroad.

Source: BBC