This is the normal way to begin a jury trial.

He’s not admitting guilt, requiring the prosecutor to prove (beyond a reasonable doubt) to a jury that he’s guilty of the charges.

If I understand correctly, NY has chosen to charge Murder 1 with a terrorism enhancement, which requires the state to prove claims about his mental state, intent, and motivation.

I assume that the defense is hoping to push for some sort of settlement latter in the pre-trial process, and/or to cast sufficient doubt over the specific elements of the charges brought