Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has entered a not guilty plea to multiple criminal charges during his first formal appearance at a New York City federal court.
The plea was entered on his behalf as US prosecutors outlined charges including drug trafficking, weapons offenses, and conspiracy, allegations that American authorities have pursued against Maduro for several years.
Court Appearance Under Heavy Security
Maduro appeared in court under tight security, accompanied by federal marshals. His wife, Cilia Flores, who is also facing related charges, was present in the courtroom. The judge confirmed Maduro’s identity, outlined the charges, and ordered that he remain in federal custody pending further proceedings.
The courtroom session was brief and largely procedural, focusing on the formal plea rather than detailed arguments.
Charges Date Back Years
The charges stem from investigations launched during the first administration of US President Donald Trump, when American prosecutors accused Maduro of leading a narco-terrorism network allegedly linked to Colombia’s FARC rebel group. US officials claim the network flooded the United States with illegal drugs in exchange for political and financial gain.
Maduro has repeatedly dismissed the accusations as politically motivated, maintaining that the case represents an attack on Venezuela’s sovereignty.
Growing International Tensions
Maduro’s prosecution comes after his dramatic capture by US forces in Venezuela, an operation that has sparked global debate and condemnation from several governments. Venezuelan officials have accused Washington of violating international law and demanded Maduro’s immediate release.
Despite the backlash, the US government insists the arrest was lawful and necessary to combat transnational crime and promote stability in the region.
What Comes Next
The judge is expected to set a timeline for pre-trial motions and evidence disclosures in the coming weeks. Legal experts say the case could take months — or longer — given its international and political complexity.
As proceedings continue, the case is expected to remain under intense global scrutiny, with potential implications for US–Latin America relations and Venezuela’s political future.
