Giuliani: U.S. Federal Racketeering Case Could Seize Billions from Maduro’s Drug Empire

Former New York Mayor and federal prosecutor Rudy Giuliani stated that federal indictments against former Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro could lead to massive financial and property seizures.

Giuliani explained that prosecutors specifically used racketeering charges against Maduro due to his involvement in drug trafficking, emphasizing the “real value” of such charges: “You can seize the business and take it away from them.” He noted that a conviction on some or all charges could result in confiscating billions of dollars in illicit funds and drug infrastructure across Venezuela and global operations.

“The criminal penalties are significant,” Giuliani added, stating that prosecutors would refine their case files once Maduro is in custody to focus on key defendants for trial.

Giuliani criticized the Biden administration for inaction regarding Maduro’s criminal network, which he described as “enormously damaging” to the United States through drug trafficking, the Tren de Aragua train system, sustained support for Iran, and assistance to China and Russia. He expressed optimism under President Trump’s leadership: “This is an unbelievably great day for the people of Venezuela and for the people of America.”

Giuliani also confirmed that President Trump ordered special operations units to detain Maduro in Venezuela overnight, capturing his wife during the operation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio characterized the move as a signal to other criminal leaders worldwide, stating: “Other criminally active third-world leaders should take note that Trump is changing the world.”

The former New York mayor noted that while specific penalties for Maduro remain unclear, terrorism charges alongside racketeering could carry potential sentences including the death penalty or life imprisonment.