New York, United States — Surrounded by the United States forces.
This is the last scenario seen as Venezuelan’s President Nicolas Maduro was escorted to a US courthouse following his capture last Saturday.
During his initial appearance on Monday (US time), the 63-year old pleaded not guilty before a judge in Manhattan federal court against all accusations filed against him.
“I am innocent. I am not guilty…I’m a decent man,” Maduro pleaded.
He is facing four serious charges, especially drug-related ones such as narco-terrorism conspiracy and cocaine importation conspiracy.
These allegations US President Donald Trump said prompted their recent operation.
Maduro also told the court that he was taken from his residence in Caracas, describing the operation as a kidnapping.
“I’m here kidnapped since January 3, Saturday. I was captured at my home in Caracas, Venezuela,” Maduro claimed.
He then went on to repeat his claim that he remains the country’s legitimate president.
On the other hand, his wife, Cilia Flores, who was captured and arrested alongside him, also appeared and entered a not guilty plea.
According to reports, neither Maduro nor Flores requested bail.
Besides these, their legal team said the two needed medical assistance.
The US court also allowed them to consult with the consulate of Venezuela.
Their next court hearing is on March 17.
VENEZUELAN VP SWORN IN AS INTERIM PRESIDENT
Meanwhile in Caracas, Venezuelan Vice President Delcy Rodríguez formally sworn in as interim president.
Prior to this, Rodríguez has already insisted that Maduro remains Venezuela’s lawful leader and called on the United States to immediately release both detainees.
Contrary to this, Trump has since stated that the United States is now in charge of Venezuela after their operation.
Besides these, reports of violent activity were observed over Caracas after their initial appearance.
The US government, however, said they were not involved.