Nicolás Maduro, the Venezuelan president, pleaded not guilty in a Manhattan federal courtroom on Monday after being captured in Caracas early Saturday. The arraignment followed a U.S. military operation to apprehend Maduro, a move that has triggered international controversy.

The courtroom proceedings, presided over by Judge Alvin Hellerstein, were described as surreal, with Maduro displaying a mix of bravado, seriousness, and defiance. According to an Associated Press report, Maduro declared "Soy inocente" (I am innocent) and told an observer in the gallery that he considered himself a prisoner of war.

Maduro's appearance in a U.S. court stems from an indictment charging him with narco-terrorism, corruption, and conspiracy to traffic narcotics into the United States. U.S. authorities have long accused Maduro's regime of being deeply involved in drug trafficking, allegations that Maduro has consistently denied. The U.S. government had previously offered a multi-million dollar reward for information leading to his arrest.

The U.S. military operation that led to Maduro's capture has been met with condemnation from several countries, who view it as a violation of international law and Venezuelan sovereignty. Supporters of Maduro have characterized the operation as a kidnapping.

The Venezuelan crisis has been ongoing for years, marked by economic collapse, political instability, and a humanitarian crisis. Maduro's government has faced widespread criticism for its human rights record and its handling of the country's economic woes. The U.S. has imposed sanctions on Venezuela in an effort to pressure Maduro to step down.

The next steps in the legal process will involve pre-trial motions and discovery. Maduro is expected to remain in U.S. custody pending trial. The case is likely to further strain relations between the U.S. and Venezuela and could have significant implications for the political landscape in the region.