US seizes Venezuelan President Maduro's airplane in sanctions enforcement: Report
What's the story
The United States has seized an airplane belonging to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, escalating tensions between the two nations. The aircraft was confiscated in the Dominican Republic due to alleged violations of US sanctions and other criminal activities. It was then flown to Florida on Monday, as confirmed by two US officials.
Legal implications
Seizure of Maduro's plane sends clear message: US officials
The confiscated aircraft, likened to Venezuela's Air Force One, has been used by Maduro for state visits globally. The Dominican Republic's President Luis Abinader revealed that the seized plane was registered under an individual's name, not the Venezuelan government. A US official stated to CNN that this action sends a clear message that no one is above the law or beyond the reach of US sanctions.
Criminal allegations
Plane linked to alleged fraud and money laundering
The Dominican Republic's Attorney General's Office received an order in May from a national court to "immobilize" the plane following a US request. The US sought to search the aircraft for evidence related to fraud, smuggling, and money laundering. US Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that the Justice Department seized this aircraft because it was allegedly purchased illegally through a shell company for $13 million and used by Maduro and his associates.
International dispute
Venezuelan government accuses US of 'piracy'
The Venezuelan government has labeled the seizure as "piracy" and accused Washington of escalating "aggression" toward Maduro's government following a contested presidential election in July. The statement read, "Once again, the authorities of the USA...have illegally seized an aircraft that has been used by the president of the Republic, justifying its action in coercive measures that, illegally and unilaterally, they impose around the world."
Ongoing tensions
US continues pressure on Venezuelan government
The seizure comes amidst increased pressure from the US on the Venezuelan government to release specific data regarding its presidential election. This follows concerns about the credibility of Maduro's claimed victory. The opposition has published over 80% of tallies printed and collected from voting machines across Venezuela, suggesting that opposition candidate Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia may have won the vote.
Economic measures
US renews sanctions on Venezuela's oil and gas sector
Earlier this year, the US renewed sanctions on Venezuela's oil and gas sector in response to the Maduro government's failure to allow "an inclusive and competitive election." After Maduro's controversial reelection on July 28, Venezuela suspended commercial flights to and from the Dominican Republic. Federal agencies have long been targeting the Venezuelan government over corruption concerns, disrupting $2 billion worth of its illicit proceeds or resources.