Nicolas Maduro and Cilia Flores plead not guilty to torture charges

Nicolas Maduro, the former president of Venezuela, and his wife, Cilia Flores, appeared in a New York court to plead not guilty to new torture-related charges. The couple has been in US custody since their capture in January during a US military raid. They are currently facing a range of allegations, including conspiracy to commit torture against political opponents and US citizens.

During the court hearing, Maduro rejected the charges, labeling them as 'false accusations.' He expressed his denial of the allegations and insisted that the indictment was unfounded. Flores also proclaimed her innocence, stating she is 'not guilty.' Their legal representatives have argued for the case to be dismissed, citing claims of sovereign immunity.

The new charges come in addition to previous accusations of drug trafficking and narco-terrorism against Maduro. Prosecutors allege that the couple was involved in a systematic campaign of repression that included torture, harassment, and intimidation of opponents, with some allegations detailing acts such as waterboarding and beatings.

Maduro and Flores are facing serious accusations of leading a violent regime that resulted in human rights violations during Maduro's presidency from 2013 to 2026. Their trial is set to begin in June 2027, as the legal proceedings continue to unfold.