Court appearance and not‑guilty plea in Manhattan On January 5, 2026, Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro entered a Manhattan federal courtroom under heavy security, spoke through an interpreter, and formally entered a not‑guilty plea to drug‑trafficking charges [1][2]. He asserted that he remains the constitutional president of Venezuela and condemned his detention as an unlawful abduction. The judge addressed procedural matters before the hearing proceeded.

Midnight raid and transport to the United States Late‑night forces seized Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, from their Caracas residence, placing them in leg shackles and jail‑style attire before flying them to the United States [1][2]. The operation was described as a bold, overnight military action that moved the couple under tight security to a detention facility abroad. Both were later transferred to the Manhattan courthouse for the initial appearance.

Indictment alleges cartel collaboration and massive cocaine shipments A 25‑page federal indictment accuses Maduro, his inner circle, and Venezuelan officials of partnering with drug cartels to move thousands of tons of cocaine into the United States [1][2]. The document lists additional crimes, including kidnappings and killings linked to the trafficking network, and warns that conviction could bring life‑sentence penalties. Prosecutors emphasize the scale of the alleged operation and its impact on U.S. drug markets.

Defense invokes head‑of‑state immunity and cites Noriega precedent Maduro’s lawyer argued that, as a sitting head of state, Maduro is entitled to diplomatic immunities and will challenge the legality of his capture [1][2]. The defense references Manuel Noriega’s failed immunity claim after his own U.S. apprehension as a comparative legal hurdle. This strategy signals a forthcoming constitutional and international‑law battle over sovereign protection.

International response and interim Venezuelan leadership The United Nations Security Council convened an emergency session to discuss the ramifications of the abduction and potential humanitarian concerns in Venezuela [1][2]. Meanwhile, Delcy Rodríguez was sworn in as interim president by her brother, signaling a rapid leadership transition in Caracas. U.S. officials linked the case to broader regional security and oil‑market dynamics, while Venezuelan authorities called for cooperation despite the crisis.