Barry Pollack: The High-Stakes Lawyer Defending Nicolas Maduro in US Court

• Barry Pollack, a veteran US defense attorney, is representing Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro, who faces federal drug trafficking charges in Manhattan.
• Maduro was seized in Caracas and appeared in court, pleading not guilty and claiming he was "kidnapped" and is the "constitutional president."
• Pollack plans to challenge the legality of Maduro's "military abduction" and argue for his immunity as a head of state, despite US non-recognition.
• Known for high-profile cases, Pollack previously represented Julian Assange, securing his release, and has a track record of acquittals and overturned convictions.
• The case has triggered diplomatic fallout, with Venezuela's interim leader and Maduro's son condemning the arrest, and the UN Security Council discussing potential international law violations.

Why It Matters: Veteran lawyer Barry Pollack defends Nicolas Maduro in a high-stakes US drug trafficking case with global implications.