The Fox News Rundown What It Takes To Convict A Dictator
Jan 6, 2026
Jim Trusty, a former prosecutor known for his expertise in high-profile criminal cases, discusses the legal intricacies of Nicolás Maduro's charges, including narco-terrorism and potential influences from cooperators. Ian Bremmer, a political scientist and Eurasia Group founder, examines the geopolitical implications of Maduro's arrest, highlighting the impact on U.S. relations with Iran, China, and other adversaries. Both guests analyze the challenges ahead for U.S. strategy in Venezuela and the broader Western Hemisphere.
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Broad, Well-Built International Indictment
- Jim Trusty argues the Maduro indictment is wide-ranging and likely years in the making with multiple international seizures and organizations named.
- He concludes the case is strong but legally complex, requiring significant corroboration and cooperation from many actors.
State Immunity Unlikely To Block Trial
- Head-of-state immunity arguments are unlikely to succeed based on Noriega precedent and Supreme Court guidance cited by Bill Barr.
- Trusty expects standard criminal pretrial motions but predicts they will largely fail to prevent trial on the merits.
Noriega Precedent Invoked
- Trusty compares Maduro's situation to Manuel Noriega's extraordinary rendition, which led to conviction despite contested legality.
- He uses the Noriega case as a precedent predicting similar legal outcomes for Maduro.