Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro appeared before a federal court in New York on Monday, January 5, 2026 , two days after his arrest in Caracas during an operation conducted by US forces. The highly anticipated hearing was marked by strong statements and significant geopolitical implications.

Accompanied by his wife Cilia Flores , the Venezuelan president pleaded not guilty to drug trafficking and criminal conspiracy charges brought by the U.S. Department of Justice. American authorities accuse the presidential couple of participating in drug trafficking networks supplying the United States, accusations vehemently denied by the defense.

Before the judge, Nicolás Maduro claimed he had been "kidnapped" by the US military, denouncing the operation as illegal and a violation of Venezuelan sovereignty. For her part, 70-year-old Cilia Flores reportedly insisted on staying with her husband during the raid on their home, stating that she refused to leave him alone.

The hearing took place under tight security, in an atmosphere of palpable diplomatic tension. The US justice system has set the next hearing for March 17, 2026 , at which time substantive arguments are expected to begin, particularly regarding the court's jurisdiction and the legality of the arrest.

This case has provoked strong reactions on the international stage . Several countries and organizations have denounced it as an attack on state sovereignty, while Washington maintains it is acting within the framework of the fight against international drug trafficking. In Venezuela, the political situation remains uncertain, even as the government ensures the continuity of institutions.

The Maduro case is shaping up to be one of the most sensitive and controversial trials in recent years , involving criminal justice, diplomacy and international power dynamics.