Defiant Maduro Declares Himself ‘Prisoner of War’ in First US Court Appearance

New York, NY – Ousted Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro appeared defiant during his first public appearance since being captured in a surprise U.S. military raid in Caracas, standing before a federal court in Lower Manhattan on Monday to face drug and weapons charges. 

Maduro, accompanied by his wife Cilia Flores and high-profile defense attorney Barry Pollack, pleaded not guilty to all charges, including narco-terrorism conspiracy and conspiracy to import cocaine. Throughout the arraignment, Maduro scribbled notes and frequently conferred with his counsel in Spanish. Pollack, known for defending Julian Assange, argued for his client’s rights but offered no legal basis for claims that the capture was unlawful. In reality, these arguments are a Hail Mary with no legal standing—just hot air in an effort to sway public opinion.

Maduro repeatedly interrupted U.S. District Judge Alvin K. Hellerstein, insisting, “I am a decent man. I am innocent. I am still president of my country.” The judge entered a not guilty plea on his behalf. Flores also pleaded not guilty and appeared more subdued during the proceedings. 

U.S.News:

• Hegseth Moves to Censure Sen. Mark Kelly, Orders Review of Retirement Rank and Pay Over ‘Seditious’ Video
• United States Captures Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro in Major Military Operation

As he exited the courtroom, Maduro proclaimed in Spanish, “I am a kidnapped president… I am a prisoner of war.”These claims are false; legal experts and U.S. officials confirm his status is that of a criminal defendant, not a POW.

Neither Maduro nor Flores sought bail, with Flores’s attorney indicating a future motion for her release. Both legal teams requested medical attention following the raid, with Flores’ counsel claiming she suffered a fracture or abrasion—allegations not independently verified.

Start your day mission-ready with Black Rifle Coffee—crafted by veterans for bold flavor and unmatched energy. BUY NOW and taste the difference!

Prosecutors outlined a timeline for discovery, expecting to submit evidence within 60 days. The next court date is set for March 17. Both defense teams waived speedy trial rights, citing the complexity and volume of evidence. 

Maduro’s arraignment, his first public appearance since his dramatic capture, has sparked international headlines and political debate. In Florida, protesters reacted to news of the ouster, while President Donald Trump declared, “We’re going to run it, fix it,” referring to U.S. control of Venezuela. Trump did not rule out deploying U.S. troops, stating, “We’re not afraid of boots on the ground.” He also warned Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, to cooperate with the U.S.

At the U.N., U.S. ambassador Mike Waltz clarified, “There is no war against Venezuela or its people. We are not occupying a country. This was a law enforcement operation.”

Despite Maduro’s dramatic outbursts and his lawyers’ unsubstantiated claims, the U.S. government maintains that his capture and extradition were legal and that he will face trial in accordance with American law.