“I Am Innocent. I Am Still President”: Maduro Defies U.S. Court in Manhattan Appearance
Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro forcefully rejected U.S. federal charges on Monday, declaring “I am innocent” and “I am still president of my country” during his first appearance in Manhattan federal court following his capture by U.S. forces in Caracas.
Appearing in shackles and orange jail slippers, Maduro pleaded not guilty to sweeping federal drug charges, describing himself as “a decent man” as he stood before U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein. Speaking through a court-appointed interpreter, Maduro insisted the proceedings were illegitimate.
“I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am a decent man. I am still president of my country,” he said when asked to enter his plea.
Judge Hellerstein formally asked, “Are you, sir, Nicolás Maduro Moros?”
Maduro replied, “I am the president of Venezuela,” adding that he had been captured at his home in Caracas. The judge interrupted, noting that challenges to the legality of his custody would be addressed at a later stage.
Maduro later confirmed his identity as stated by the court.
His wife, Cilia Flores, appeared alongside him and also pleaded not guilty. Introducing herself, she told the court, “I am Cilia Flores. I am first lady of the Republic of Venezuela.” Judge Hellerstein clarified that the proceeding was limited to advising her of her rights and confirming her identity. When asked for her plea, Flores responded, “Not guilty — completely innocent.”
Both defendants wore headphones to hear the interpreter. Maduro sat beside defense attorney Barry Pollack, immediately writing notes after taking his seat, while Flores sat next to her attorney, Mark Donnelly.
Maduro and Flores are among six defendants named in a four-count superseding indictment accusing them of conspiring with violent international drug traffickers over a 25-year period. Maduro has repeatedly denied the allegations.
The couple is being held in federal custody at the Metropolitan Detention Center in Brooklyn.
Outside the courthouse, opposing groups of protesters gathered. Some waved signs urging U.S. President Donald Trump to “Free President Maduro,” while others voiced support for his arrest and prosecution.
The case is expected to carry significant political and diplomatic consequences as Maduro continues to challenge U.S. jurisdiction and the legitimacy of the proceedings.
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