Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, have pleaded not guilty during their first court appearance in New York following their capture in a United States military operation, according to CNN.
CNN reported that Maduro appeared defiant before the judge, telling the court that he is “still the president of Venezuela,” despite facing US drug trafficking and weapons charges. The network noted that neither Maduro nor Flores is seeking bail at this stage.
The development comes as Washington intensifies its involvement in Venezuela. According to CNN, US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States is now “in charge” of Venezuela, while issuing warnings that other countries could face similar action.
CNN further reported that the Trump administration is working rapidly to establish a cooperative interim government in Caracas, including efforts to repair Venezuela’s oil infrastructure. The network said US officials are pushing for stability as acting Venezuelan leader Delcy Rodríguez publicly called for “cooperation” with the United States.
On the ground in Venezuela, CNN said many citizens are “hunkering down” amid uncertainty and fear over what may come next, as the political and security situation continues to evolve.
Meanwhile, CNN reported that US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Secretary of State Marco Rubio are expected to deliver a classified briefing to bipartisan members of Congress. Lawmakers are seeking clarity on the military raid that led to Maduro’s capture, particularly as CNN noted that Congress was not informed ahead of the operation.
The arrest, prosecution, and political fallout surrounding Maduro mark a dramatic turning point for Venezuela and the wider region, with CNN describing the situation as one of deep uncertainty as global attention remains fixed on what happens next.
Source: CNN
