Maduro Pleads Not Guilty to Narco-Terrorism Charges in Federal Court

The former Venezuelan leader and his wife have been indicted on charges related to narco-terrorism.

Law enforcement officers in front of the federal district courthouse in Manhattan, New York City, on Jan. 4, 2026. Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro was arraigned at the courthouse on Jan. 5, 2026. Samira Bouaou/The Epoch Times

NEW YORK CITY—Captured Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro pleaded not guilty during a historic arraignment in the borough of Manhattan, where he faces an indictment on various conspiracy charges, as well as the potential for decades in prison.

“I’m innocent,” Maduro, 63, said. “I am not guilty. I am a decent man, the president of my country.”