Newsman: Nicolas Maduro and his wife both pleaded not guilty,during their arraignment in Manhattan federal court.
“I am innocent. I am not guilty. I am a decent man. I am still president of my country,” Maduro said through an interpreter when the judge asked for his plea.
His wife, Cilia Flores, responded similarly, saying, “Not guilty. Completely innocent.”
While confirming his identity at the start of the hearing, Maduro declared through an interpreter, “I am the president of Venezuela.”
“I was captured at my home in Caracas, Venezuela,” he added, before the judge interrupted and told him there would be time later to challenge his custody.
Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro is escorted, as he heads to an initial court appearance to face U.S. federal charges including narco-terrorism, conspiracy, drug trafficking, money laundering and others in New York City, January 5, 2026.
Neither Maduro nor Flores are seeking bail. The judge said he is open to receiving a bail application in the future but the couple will otherwise remain detained at MDC-Brooklyn.
Flores’ attorney said she “sustained significant injuries” during the military operation and requested a medical briefing.
“There’s worry she may have a fracture or severe bruising on her ribs,” her attorney, Mark Donnelly, said.
They are next due in court on March 17.
