In a bold move signaling heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas, the United States has seized a luxury jet belonging to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro.
The Dassault Falcon 900EX, valued at approximately $13 million, was taken into custody in the Dominican Republic and subsequently flown to Florida.
The Seizure
The seizure, executed on September 2, 2024, was based on allegations that the aircraft was purchased through illicit means, circumventing US sanctions against Venezuelan government officials.
According to US officials, the plane was bought via a Caribbean-based shell company in late 2022, smuggled out of the U.S., and used for Maduro’s personal travel, including diplomatic visits and a controversial prisoner swap.
Legal Grounds and U.S. Statements
The Justice Department, leading the operation alongside Homeland Security Investigations and other federal agencies, cited violations of U.S. export control and sanctions laws.
Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the seizure’s message: “Aircraft illegally acquired from the United States for the benefit of sanctioned Venezuelan officials cannot just fly off into the sunset.”
Venezuela reacts
The Venezuelan government has vehemently protested the seizure, labeling it an act of “piracy” by the US government.
Venezuelan state media and officials have accused the US of overstepping its bounds, with President Maduro himself decrying the move as an attempt to undermine Venezuelan sovereignty.
The Venezuelan government has hinted at potential legal action, though specifics on how they plan to challenge the seizure remain unknown.
Implications
This incident comes at a time when relations between the US and Venezuela are already strained over issues ranging from human rights to oil politics.
The seizure not only represents a physical asset loss for Maduro but also symbolizes a broader US strategy to isolate and pressure the Venezuelan leadership.