The US Justice Department has seized a $13m aircraft allegedly purchased for Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro in violation of sanctions. The Dassault Falcon 900EX was seized in the Dominican Republic and brought to Florida. The transaction took place through a shell company to evade sanctions that prohibit sales to individuals acting on behalf of Maduro. The purchase violates sanctions imposed by Washington in 2019. Attorney General Merrick Garland stated that the department will continue to pursue and prevent individuals from using American resources to undermine US national security.
Matthew Axelrod from the Department of Commerce emphasized that they will work relentlessly to identify and return any aircraft illegally smuggled out of the US, regardless of the officials involved or the luxury of the private jet. The aircraft was purchased from a Florida-based company by a Caribbean-based shell company to evade sanctions. It has primarily flown to and from a Venezuelan military base and has been used for transporting Maduro on foreign visits. The US has imposed sanctions on Venezuelan individuals and entities since 2005 to destabilize Maduro, who replaced Hugo Chavez when he passed away.
Economic mismanagement and sanctions have worsened Venezuela’s economic and humanitarian crises, leading to mass migration from the country. The US relaxed some sanctions to encourage Maduro to hold free and fair elections, but they were reinstated due to alleged violations. Maduro claimed victory in the July election, sparking protests in the country. At least 27 people have been killed and 192 wounded during the protests. The White House linked the seizure of the plane to the election and accused Maduro of tampering with the results, falsely claiming victory, and using repression to maintain power by force.
The seizure of the aircraft is seen as a significant step by the US to hold Maduro accountable for his governance of Venezuela. The spokesperson for the White House National Security Council highlighted the importance of making Maduro feel the consequences of his actions. Maduro’s government has not publicly responded to the incident, but he has criticized the US and threatened to call for a new revolution in response to what he calls “North American imperialism and fascist criminals.” The European Union has rejected the results of the July election, raising doubts about Maduro’s victory.
The US has increased pressure on Maduro’s government, seizing the aircraft allegedly bought for him in violation of sanctions. The transaction was made through a shell company to evade sanctions imposed by Washington in 2019. Despite efforts by the Biden administration to motivate Maduro to hold fair elections, many sanctions were reimposed due to alleged violations. Maduro claimed victory in the July election, leading to protests and accusations of tampering with the results. The seizure of the aircraft is seen as a way to ensure accountability for Maduro’s actions and governance of Venezuela.
