Alex Saab pleads not guilty to money laundering charges in Miami

Former Venezuelan minister Alex Saab has pleaded not guilty to charges of money laundering and financial conspiracy in a Miami federal court. The plea was entered remotely by his defense attorneys during a brief hearing, as Saab himself did not physically attend.

Saab's defense team has requested a trial by jury, initiating a new phase in the legal process. The charges against the Colombian-born businessman, whom U.S. authorities identify as a key figure for former President Nicolás Maduro, include conspiracy to conduct illicit financial transactions and schemes to hide the origin of funds.

This legal battle is part of a complex international saga for Saab. He was previously extradited to the U.S. from Cabo Verde in 2020 to face similar charges. However, he was released in 2023 as part of a prisoner exchange with Venezuela and subsequently appointed minister of National Production and Industries upon his return to Caracas.

Saab's current legal situation is closely linked to U.S. operations targeting Maduro, who is facing separate federal charges in New York. The case also has regional implications, with Ecuador's government expressing willingness to cooperate with U.S. authorities regarding Saab's past operations in the country.