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Deposed Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro appeared in a New York City court on Monday, where he pleaded not guilty to charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, and weapons offenses. During his arraignment, Maduro claimed he was a "prisoner of war" and insisted he had been "captured" and "kidnapped," maintaining that he is still the rightful president of Venezuela. His wife, Cilia Flores, and his son, Nicolás Maduro Guerra, also pleaded not guilty to related charges.
The charges stem from a U.S. military operation that captured Maduro and Flores in Caracas, Venezuela, on Saturday. The operation involved 150 aircraft and has drawn international attention and criticism. According to CBC News, the charges against Maduro and his family could result in life imprisonment if they are convicted.
Maduro's defense team argues that his arrest was illegal and that he is immune from prosecution under international law because he is the leader of a sovereign state. However, the U.S. does not recognize Maduro as Venezuela's legitimate leader, a stance shared by several other countries, including Canada. Despite the controversy, the U.S. plans to prosecute Maduro, with his next court appearance scheduled for March 17.
The operation to capture Maduro has sparked mixed reactions globally. NBC News reports that while some Venezuelans celebrated his removal, others criticized the U.S. intervention, likening it to previous regime changes orchestrated by the U.S. in the region. The U.S. government, under President Donald Trump, has stated that it does not intend to occupy Venezuela but aims to influence a change in the regime's behavior.
The international community remains divided over the legality and implications of the U.S. actions. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed concern about the potential instability the operation could cause in the region and urged adherence to international law. Meanwhile, Fox News reports that Trump has proposed a plan to rebuild Venezuela’s oil infrastructure, with American oil companies potentially playing a significant role.
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