Nicolás Maduro Pleads Not Guilty to Drug Trafficking Charges in US Court

Maduro's Arrest and Court Appearance

• ⛓️ Nicolás Maduro was seen handcuffed and escorted by US guards to a federal courtroom in Manhattan.
• 🗣️ He declared himself "the president of my country" and claimed he had been kidnapped from his home on January 3rd.
• ⚖️ Maduro pleaded not guilty to all four charges, including drug trafficking.
• 🔒 Both Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, will remain behind bars until a new hearing on March 17th.

Venezuelan Government Response

• ✊ Officials from Maduro's administration marched in Venezuela, showing support for their ousted leader.
• 🤝 Maduro's son expressed unconditional support for Deli Rodriguez, who was sworn in as interim president.
• 📜 Rodriguez vowed to work towards Venezuela's destiny as a free, sovereign, and independent nation.
• 🏛️ Jorge Rodriguez was reappointed head of the National Assembly and pledged to bring back Maduro.

Public Reaction

• 📣 Pro-Maduro demonstrators gathered in the streets, echoing calls to bring back their leader.
• 🌍 The images of Maduro's arrest were expected to circulate around the world.