The United States is reportedly preparing to seize another aircraft tied to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s government. This plane, a Dassault Falcon 200, has been held in the Dominican Republic and is allegedly connected to violations of U.S. sanctions.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is expected to announce the plane’s seizure during his visit to Santo Domingo, part of a five-nation Central America tour. According to an insider and a State Department document obtained by The Associated Press, Rubio will reveal the action during a “law enforcement engagement.”
Key Details of the Seizure
The process required Rubio to approve a foreign aid freeze waiver to cover over $230,000 in storage and maintenance fees for the plane. Final approval also came from the U.S. Department of Justice.
The Dassault Falcon 200 has reportedly been used by Maduro, his vice president, and other top officials for international travel, including to countries like Russia, Turkey, Greece, and Cuba. U.S. officials claim such travel violates existing sanctions.
This development follows another seizure in September 2024 when the U.S. confiscated a Dassault Falcon 900EX valued at $13 million. That plane was allegedly acquired through a Caribbean shell company to obscure Maduro’s government’s involvement.
Broader Implications
The seizure is part of ongoing U.S. efforts to exert pressure on Maduro’s administration. The move also coincides with recent talks between U.S. envoy Richard Grenell and Maduro in Caracas, during which six detained Americans were released.
Separately, the U.S. has faced diplomatic challenges during Rubio’s tour. While the U.S. State Department claimed Panama had agreed to waive fees for U.S. warships transiting the Panama Canal, Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino denied the agreement, creating additional tensions.
FAQs
- Why is the U.S. seizing Nicolás Maduro’s plane?
The U.S. claims the plane was used to violate sanctions through unauthorized international travel. - Who is Marco Rubio, and what role is he playing in this?
Marco Rubio, the U.S. Secretary of State, approved the necessary waivers and is set to announce the plane’s seizure. - What is the significance of the Dassault Falcon 200?
The plane was reportedly used by Maduro and his aides for international trips to sanctioned countries, prompting U.S. action. - Has the U.S. seized other planes linked to Venezuela?
Yes, in September 2024, the U.S. confiscated another plane tied to Maduro’s government, a Dassault Falcon 900EX. - What are the implications of this move for U.S.-Venezuela relations?
This further escalates tensions, as it adds pressure on Maduro’s administration while the U.S. continues to push for democratic reforms in Venezuela.