Maduro Declares Himself 'Kidnapped' Venezuelan President in US Court

• Nicolas Maduro appeared in US Federal Court in Manhattan on drug trafficking and narco-terrorism charges, declaring himself innocent.
• Maduro claimed he is still the President of Venezuela and was "kidnapped" from Caracas, calling himself a "prisoner of war."
• He and his wife, Cilia Flores, denied all charges, appearing in jail uniforms and shackles; next hearing is March 17.
• Maduro was apprehended by the US military on January 3 under 'Operation Absolute Resolve'.
• He is currently held at the notorious Metropolitan Detention Center (MDC) in Brooklyn, a prison known for poor conditions.

Why It Matters: Nicolas Maduro, facing US charges, asserted his innocence and presidential status, claiming he was kidnapped.