US files new charges against ousted Venezuelan leader Maduro

Moving on now, Venezuela's state president, Nicolas Maduro, is facing fresh charges in the United States, accusing him of conspiring to torture political opponents. Maduro and his wife, Cecilia Flores, have pleaded not guilty, adding to the legal battle that began after their capture in a U.S. military raid in the month of January. Prosecutors accused Maduro of directing a conspiracy to torture political opponents and military personnel suspected of plotting against him. The alleged abuse included kidnappings, waterboarding, rape and beatings with victims including U.S. citizens. But Flores is accused of supporting the plan. Appearing in a New York court on Thursday, Maduro dismissed the indictment as false while Flores declared herself innocent. They also deny separate drug trafficking and firearms charges. Captured in a U.S. raid on their Caracas home on January 3, they remain in custody in Brooklyn. They have challenged the case, claiming presidential and first lady immunity, while their trial has been postponed to 14 June 2027 following the new charges. Since Maduro's capture, former Vice President Delcy Rodriguez has led Venezuela as interim leader, increasing cooperation with Washington. Maduro's government faced years of human rights criticism and US sanctions. He has accused Washington of seeking to oust him and gain control of Venezuela's natural resources. The new charges add to the legal battle facing Maduro and Flores as they await their trial.