Former Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has pleaded not guilty to all charges during his first court appearance in New York, defiantly telling the judge that he considers himself a “prisoner of war” and insisting that he remains the legitimate president of Venezuela.
According to statements recorded in court, Maduro said:
“I am the president of Venezuela, I consider myself a prisoner of war. I’m innocent. I am not guilty. I am President.”
The comments were made as the proceedings began on a series of charges linked to international criminal allegations, following his controversial capture and transfer into U.S. custody.
Maduro’s declaration appeared to frame his detention as a political and sovereignty dispute, rather than a criminal matter, reinforcing his long-standing claim that he remains Venezuela’s rightful leader despite opposition challenges and international pressure.
Legal analysts note that the “prisoner of war” characterization carries symbolic and diplomatic weight, but has no standing in U.S. criminal court proceedings, where Maduro will continue to be treated as a defendant under federal jurisdiction.
The court formally entered a not-guilty plea, and the case is expected to proceed to further hearings in the coming weeks.
OYOGist observes that reactions have already begun to emerge across political circles, particularly among Venezuelan diaspora communities and international observers closely monitoring the situation.
This is a developing story. More details will follow as the case progresses.
