Venezuelan President’s Plane Seized U.S. Government Seizes Venezuelan President’s Plane in Dominican Republic
Venezuelan President’s Plane Seized In a significant move, the U.S. government has seized a plane owned by Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, citing violations of U.S. sanctions and export control laws. The aircraft, a Dassault Falcon 900EX valued at $13 million, was apprehended in the Dominican Republic and subsequently transported to Florida.
Details of the Seizure
The plane was acquired through a shell company, a tactic used to conceal the involvement of Maduro’s associates. It was then illegally exported from the United States to Venezuela via the Caribbean in April 2023. Since then, it has been predominantly used for international travel by Maduro and his representatives.
U.S. Government’s Stance
U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized that this action underscores the commitment to enforcing sanctions and export controls, stating, “Aircraft illegally acquired from the United States for the benefit of sanctioned Venezuelan officials cannot just fly off into the sunset.”
Venezuelan Government’s Response
The Venezuelan government has condemned the seizure, labeling it an act of “piracy” and asserting that it is a “repeated criminal practice” by the United States.
Implications and Future Developments
This development is expected to further strain relations between the U.S. and Venezuela. The U.S. has previously imposed sanctions on Maduro and his associates, targeting the country’s oil sector and other assets. The seizure of the aircraft may lead to additional measures aimed at pressuring the Venezuelan government.
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