Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro appeared before a federal judge in New York City on Monday, where he entered a plea of not guilty to multiple drug and weapons charges following his capture by United States forces.
Maduro, who was brought before the Manhattan Federal Court on January 5, told the judge through a translator that he remained the president of Venezuela and described himself as innocent. He and his wife, Cilia Flores, are not seeking bail, according to court proceedings.
The court appearance marked Maduro’s first since his arrest during a US military operation over the weekend. The United States government does not recognise him as Venezuela’s legitimate leader, a position reiterated by President Donald Trump, who said Washington was now “in charge” of the South American country.
Inside the courtroom, where cameras were barred, legal observers noted that the use of a translator appeared to slow proceedings. CNN senior legal analyst Elie Honig said Maduro’s responses were often longer than required, including when he confirmed his identity and spoke about the circumstances of his arrest at his home. The judge was required to wait for full translations before responding, which made it more difficult to manage the scope of the answers.
Outside the courthouse, scenes were tense as crowds gathered on both sides of the street. Protesters were separated into different pens, with some welcoming Maduro’s arrest while others called for his release. Demonstrators waved Venezuelan flags and chanted slogans calling for freedom, while placards reading “Free our political prisoners in Venezuela” and “Free President Maduro” were held aloft. One protester was also seen carrying a flag bearing the words “Trump for king.”
The hearing followed standard federal court procedure, beginning with an arraignment during which the charges were read and the plea entered. The judge confirmed that Maduro had legal representation and considered the issue of bail, which is not expected to be granted. The court is also set to outline timelines for motions and possible trial dates in the coming days.
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