Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has formally entered a not guilty plea to comprehensive drug trafficking and narco-terrorism conspiracy charges during his inaugural appearance in a United States federal courtroom. The hearing marked a significant development in a case initially brought by the Trump administration, which had previously authorized a multi-million dollar bounty for Maduro’s capture.
Addressing the court through an interpreter, Maduro asserted his innocence and presidential status, declaring, “I’m innocent. I am not guilty. I am a decent man, the president of my country.” The Venezuelan leader indicated he had not previously reviewed the indictment nor been adequately informed of his legal rights, stating, “Your honor is informing me of them now.”
Following procedural formalities, the presiding judge recorded an official not guilty plea on Maduro’s behalf. When directly questioned about his plea, Maduro reaffirmed his position: “I am innocent. I am not guilty of anything that is mentioned here.”
The judicial proceedings subsequently extended to First Lady Cília Flores, who similarly pleaded not guilty to related charges. Identified herself as “first lady of the Republic of Venezuela,” Flores asserted her complete innocence before the court.
The case represents an unprecedented legal confrontation involving a sitting head of state and underscores the deteriorating relations between the United States and Venezuela. The charges allege Maduro’s involvement in coordinating with Venezuelan officials and Colombian rebel groups to transform Venezuela into a strategic hub for cocaine trafficking destined for the United States.