Venezuela’s Maduro Maintains Presidential Authority as US Drug Case Moves Forward

Venezuela’s President Nicolás Maduro has firmly asserted his continued leadership of the country after appearing before a United States court, where he and his wife, Cilia Flores, entered not-guilty pleas to a series of serious criminal charges.

Maduro appeared under heavy security at a federal court in New York, using the opportunity not only to reject the accusations against him but also to restate his political position. Addressing the court, he declared, “I am still president,” underscoring his refusal to recognise the legitimacy of the case or any challenge to his authority.

Both Maduro and Flores pleaded not guilty to all charges outlined in the indictment. Prosecutors listed four counts in total, including allegations of narco-terrorism conspiracy, as well as accusations relating to the possession of machine guns and other destructive devices. US authorities allege that the offences were part of a long-running effort to traffic narcotics and undermine American security interests.

The Venezuelan government has consistently dismissed the charges as politically motivated, arguing that they form part of a broader campaign of pressure and sanctions aimed at destabilising the country’s leadership. Officials in Caracas maintain that Maduro remains the constitutionally elected president and continues to exercise full control over state institutions.

Despite the gravity of the accusations, the court appearance marked a procedural step forward rather than a judgment on guilt, allowing the legal process to advance in line with due process requirements. Supporters of the Venezuelan leader say the not-guilty pleas demonstrate confidence in eventually challenging the case, while the proceedings themselves bring renewed international attention to the long-running tensions between Washington and Caracas.