Maduro Denies Torture Charges in New York Court; Opposition Leader Criticizes Oil Deal

Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro has pleaded not guilty to new torture-related charges brought against him in a New York court. Maduro, appearing shackled, vehemently denied the allegations, calling them "false accusations" and "entirely" rejected the rewritten indictment. The charges accuse him and his wife, Cilia Flores, of leading a state-sponsored campaign of repression and torture, including against three Americans.

Meanwhile, Venezuela's opposition leader, María Corina Machado, has broken with the Trump administration over a new oil deal, calling the partner corrupt. Machado indicated that her return to Venezuela is imminent, suggesting a shift in political alliances and potential challenges to Maduro's government. The country is also reportedly withdrawing from the International Criminal Court, which is investigating a campaign of police raids that resulted in thousands of deaths and a significant drop in crime.