‘I Am Innocent’: What Nicolas Maduro Told The US Judge During His First Court Hearing

Washington: Deposed Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, detained by the US, appeared in a New York federal court on Monday. This was his first court appearance after being brought to America. During the hearing, Maduro denied all the allegations against him and declared himself innocent.

What charges were read against Maduro in the court?

In Manhattan court, Judge Alvin Hellerstein read out the charges against Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores. Maduro faces four serious criminal charges, including drug terrorism, conspiracy to smuggle cocaine into the US, and possession of illegal weapons. The hearing lasted for about half an hour, and the next date was fixed for March 17.

What did Maduro say in court?

Speaking through an interpreter during the hearing, Maduro said, "I am innocent; I committed no crime. I am a decent human being and am still the president of my country." He also claimed that he was forcibly detained on January 3 and that it was a form of kidnapping.

What is Maduro's claim regarding the arrest?

Maduro told the judge that he was arrested at his home in Caracas, the Venezuelan capital. He says that American agencies took this action on foreign soil, which is against international laws. His lawyer has also termed it as “military kidnapping.”

What did Maduro's wife say?

Maduro's wife, Cilia Flores, was also present with him in the court. She also declared herself completely innocent. When asked about her identity, she said, “I am the First Lady of Venezuela.” She also rejected the allegations outright.

What were the security arrangements in the court?

Maduro and his wife were brought from custody in Brooklyn under heavy security ahead of their court appearance. Maduro's hands were tied, and he was flown to the court by helicopter amid armed guards.

When and how did this matter start?

America had accused Maduro for the first time in the year 2020. US prosecutors claim that Maduro protected international drug trafficking networks and worked closely with several criminal organizations. The US does not consider Maduro the legitimate president after the disputed 2018 elections.

What has Maduro said before about these allegations?

Maduro has consistently rejected these allegations. He says that all this is part of a conspiracy to take over Venezuela's oil resources. Now the whole world is keeping an eye on which direction this fight will take in the court.