Maduro Pleads Not Guilty to US Drug-Trafficking Charges in NY

DID Press: Venezuela’s abducted president, Nicolás Maduro, rejected U.S. drug-trafficking charges during an appearance in a federal court in Manhattan, a development that has triggered global reactions and deepened political turmoil in Caracas following his unexpected arrest ordered under the administration of Donald Trump.

The 63-year-old leader told the judge through an interpreter: “I am innocent. I have committed no crime. I am an honorable man and I am the president of my country.” His remarks were interrupted by the judge.

Maduro’s wife, Cilia Flores, also pleaded not guilty during the same hearing.

The judge scheduled the next court session for March 17. The hearing lasted less than 30 minutes.

Outside the Manhattan federal courthouse, dozens of supporters and opponents of Maduro gathered, while police maintained tight security around the building.