Maduro Roars in US Court, Claims Presidency; UN Condemns 'Kidnapping'

• Nicolas Maduro appeared in a New York court, declaring innocence and asserting he is still Venezuela's President, despite being in jail uniform and shackles.
• Maduro and Cilia Flores face four charges of narco-terrorism and drug trafficking, which they outright rejected; lawyers are not currently seeking bail.
• Delcy Rodriguez was sworn in as interim president in Venezuela, condemning the US action and calling Maduro a "true hero."
• The US military's apprehension of Maduro from Caracas on January 3 under 'Operation Absolute Resolve' sparked strong condemnation at the UNSC.
• UN, Colombia, and Russia criticized the US action as a violation of international rules and an "unforgivable crime," demanding Maduro's immediate release.

Why It Matters: Maduro asserts presidency in US court amid international outcry over his arrest and Venezuela's interim leadership.