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Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolas Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in Manhattan federal court on Monday (January 5) following their capture by U.S. forces in Caracas. Maduro, who faces charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation conspiracy, pleaded not guilty, asserting, "I am innocent." He added, "I am still the president of Venezuela," during his initial court appearance.
The couple, held in federal custody at MDC-Brooklyn, appeared before Judge Alvin Hellerstein. Maduro, escorted into the courtroom in shackles, wore orange jail slippers and sat two seats away from his wife. Both used headphones to hear the court-provided interpreter.
The U.S. operation to capture Maduro was described as a "surgical law enforcement operation" by U.S. envoy Mike Waltz. The operation has sparked international debate, with Russia condemning the U.S. actions and calling for Maduro's release.
Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez has assumed the role of acting president, following a Supreme Court order. She has called for cooperation with the U.S., despite initially accusing them of "kidnapping" Maduro.
Outside the courthouse, protesters gathered in support of both Maduro's detention and his release. The case continues to draw significant attention as it unfolds, with implications for U.S.-Venezuelan relations and the future of Venezuela's leadership.