Venezuelan Minister of Interior and Justice, Diosdado Cabello, announced on Friday that former President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have received their initial consular visit following their capture and transfer to a U.S. prison. They are currently facing federal charges, including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
“He has already had his first consular visit, which was granted. During this visit, he was able to speak with one of our Venezuelan officials and express anything he wished to communicate,” Cabello stated without specifying the exact date. This announcement was made during a police patrol handover event in Miranda state, near Caracas, as reported by the EFE news agency.
Maduro and Flores were apprehended on January 3rd in a U.S. military operation in Caracas. Subsequently, they were transferred to New York and detained in a federal prison in Brooklyn as part of a legal process involving several charges, including conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the United States.
Cabello, a key figure in the Chavista movement, dismissed the allegations and emphasized that the Venezuelan government is consistently working towards the couple's release. “Every day, efforts are made to have Nicolás and Cilia returned to us,” he asserted.
However, he did not provide details on the specific actions taken or the progress of diplomatic negotiations between Caracas and Washington.
A document from the Southern District of New York's Attorney's Office indicated that on January 30th, Maduro and Flores were visited by "an official representing the Republic of Venezuela to assist the defendants with any services they required," thereby complying with a judicial order to grant access to consular services following their initial court appearance.
The next hearing for the couple is scheduled for March 26th at 11:00 a.m., after the prosecution requested a postponement to gather more evidence and allow the defense time to review it.
Judge Alvin Hellerstein approved the delay "in the interest of justice," as recorded in the case file.
Maduro has pleaded not guilty to the charges, describing himself as "a prisoner of war," while the U.S. justice system continues with the proceedings. The charges hold the potential for severe penalties should guilt be established.
Frequently Asked Questions about Nicolás Maduro's Legal Situation
What charges is Nicolás Maduro facing in the United States?
Nicolás Maduro is facing federal charges in the United States, including drug trafficking and narco-terrorism.
When is the next court hearing for Maduro and Flores?
The next court hearing for Nicolás Maduro and Cilia Flores is scheduled for March 26th at 11:00 a.m.