U.S. Seizes Venezuelan President Maduro's Plane in the Dominican Republic

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In a significant move, the United States has seized a plane belonging to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, described as Venezuela’s "Air Force One." The Dassault Falcon 900-EX, valued at $13 million, was captured by U.S. authorities in the Dominican Republic and flown to Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The seizure was part of a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Department of Commerce, citing violations of U.S. sanctions and export controls under Executive Order 13884. This action is expected to further strain U.S.-Venezuela relations.

The plane had been allegedly purchased through a shell company to bypass sanctions and was used for Maduro’s state visits. U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized that the Department of Justice will continue to target those who violate sanctions, underscoring the U.S. commitment to preventing the misuse of American resources for undermining national security. The seizure highlights the ongoing tension between the two nations, particularly in the context of Maduro’s regime and U.S. foreign policy interests.