Maduro seeks to dismiss indictment by claiming immunity as foreign head of state

Deposed Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro asked a New York federal judge to throw out an indictment on narcoterrorism and drug-trafficking charges, arguing he enjoys absolute immunity as a foreign head of state. Maduro’s lawyers contend the prosecution violates customary international law and that his alleged acts were official state actions, meaning the case should be dismissed. They also invoke a Supreme Court precedent on presidential immunity, noting the conduct at issue occurred while he held power; trial for Maduro and his wife is slated for next summer.