Tensions flared outside a Manhattan federal courthouse on Thursday as former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro appeared in court to face charges of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
Maduro, captured by US special forces earlier this year and extradited to the United States, faced a court packed with rival demonstrators.
Supporters waved banners reading “Free President Maduro Flores,” denouncing the January 3 military operation that led to his capture as a violation of international law.
“I came because the US is attacking the peoples of the Americas. The operation on January 3 was illegal under both US and international law,” said Jill Clark-Golub of the Nicaragua Solidarity Coalition, speaking for pro-Maduro protesters.
Opposing demonstrations also took place outside the court, with critics insisting Maduro must be held accountable for alleged drug trafficking and corruption under his administration.
Nelly Saucedo, an anti-Maduro protester, accused the former leader of orchestrating state-sanctioned drug operations.
Inside the courtroom, Maduro’s legal team sought the dismissal of his indictment, arguing that the United States was violating his constitutional rights by blocking access to Venezuelan government funds for legal defense.
The proceedings opened with a heated debate between defense lawyers and federal prosecutors over this issue.
Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, were seized in a pre-dawn raid in Caracas in January, following months of US pressure on his government and targeted military operations aimed at alleged drug trafficking networks.
He has pleaded not guilty and remains in federal custody in New York as the trial continues.
US charging documents allege that Maduro used state power to protect and promote illegal activities, including cocaine trafficking and narco-terrorism, actions that have ignited international debate over legality and sovereignty.
The unfolding trial is set against a backdrop of polarized opinion, with Maduro’s supporters condemning the operation as unlawful, and opponents calling for justice for his alleged crimes.
