Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro entered a plea of not guilty to all U.S. charges during his first court appearance in New York on January 5, 2026. The hearing marks a dramatic escalation in tensions between Washington and Caracas.
"I am innocent, I am not guilty," Maduro declared in court, claiming he was "kidnapped" from his Caracas residence. He reaffirmed his position as Venezuela's legitimate leader despite being brought before a foreign judiciary.
First Lady Cilia Flores similarly denied all allegations against her during the proceedings. The case has drawn international attention as it unfolds during a period of heightened geopolitical friction in Latin America.
A subsequent hearing has been scheduled for March 17, setting the stage for a prolonged legal battle with potential implications for energy markets and regional diplomacy. Observers note the proceedings could impact Venezuela's oil exports and foreign investment climate in 2026.
