Ousted Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro and his wife, Cilia Flores, pleaded not guilty during their first court appearance on Monday in New York.
Both appeared before federal judge Alvin Hellerstein.
After entering a plea of not guilty to four charges of narco-terrorism conspiracy, cocaine importation conspiracy, possession of machine guns and destructive devices and conspiracy to possess machine guns and destructive devices, Mr. Maduro told the court he is still the president of Venezuela before he was cut off by the judge.
Mr. Maduro’s attorney, Barry Pollack, said medical concerns involving both Mr. Maduro and his wife must be addressed, with Mr. Maduro requiring particular attention.
Ms. Flores’ attorney, Mark Donnelly, also noted that the ousted first lady sustained significant injuries during her abduction.
The judge informed Mr. Maduro and Ms. Flores they have the right to speak with the consulate of Venezuela. Both defendants asked for that visit.