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

Maduro's appearance before Judge Alvin Hellerstein was described as surreal, with the Venezuelan leader displaying a mix of bravado and defiance. According to an Associated Press report, Maduro declared "Soy inocente" ("I am innocent") and told an individual in the gallery that he considered himself a prisoner of war.

The U.S. military operation that led to Maduro's capture has been met with mixed reactions globally. Some nations have condemned the action as a violation of international law and Venezuelan sovereignty, while others have expressed support for the U.S. initiative, citing Maduro's alleged involvement in drug trafficking and corruption. The U.S. government has long accused Maduro of undermining democracy and human rights in Venezuela.

The indictment against Maduro includes charges of narco-terrorism, corruption, and conspiracy to import cocaine into the United States. U.S. authorities have offered a $15 million reward for information leading to his arrest.

The Venezuelan government has denounced Maduro's capture as an act of aggression and a violation of international law. Supporters of Maduro have staged protests in Caracas and other cities, demanding his immediate release. The Venezuelan crisis has been ongoing for years, marked by political instability, economic hardship, and a humanitarian crisis.

The next steps in the legal proceedings against Maduro will involve pre-trial motions, discovery, and potentially a trial. The case is expected to be complex and politically charged, with significant implications for U.S.-Venezuelan relations and the broader geopolitical landscape in Latin America. The courtroom proceedings are being closely watched by international observers and could further escalate tensions in the region.