During a press conference, she emphasized that Washington's actions, which ignore Maduro's status as president, constitute open judicial persecution and the creation of a so-called judicial process in American courts. In her opinion, this is a gross violation of Venezuela's sovereignty and negatively affects international relations.
Mao Ning added that no one can place their rules above the norms of international law. In this regard, China has called on the U.S. to immediately release Nicolás Maduro and his wife Cilia Flores, as well as to ensure their safety.
Recently, the first court hearing in Maduro's case took place in New York, where he faces up to four life sentences for charges related to drug trafficking, cocaine smuggling, possession of firearms and explosives, as well as conspiracy to use them against the U.S.
At the hearing, Maduro stated that he continues to consider himself the president of Venezuela and does not acknowledge his guilt. His wife also insists on her innocence. The judge communicated with them through a translator using headphones for simultaneous interpretation.
The court scheduled the next hearing for March 17, allowing consular officials to attend the proceedings. Maduro's defense intends to seek his release on bail.
