U.S. Seizes Nicolás Maduro’s Private Jet in Major Sanctions Crackdown

The U.S. government’s commitment to enforcing sanctions, the Department of Justice (DOJ) seized the private jet of Venezuelan socialist dictator Nicolás Maduro on Monday. The Dassault Falcon 900EX, valued at roughly $13 million, was confiscated in the Dominican Republic and transferred to the Southern District of Florida due to violations of U.S. export control and sanctions laws.

The seizure represents a significant blow to Maduro and his regime, as the aircraft has been described as Venezuela’s equivalent to Air Force One. It was illegally purchased by Maduro’s associates between late 2022 and early 2023 from a company in Florida and then exported without proper authorization. Since then, it has been used almost exclusively for flights to and from a military base in Venezuela, often transporting Maduro himself on official visits.

The DOJ’s action is a direct result of sanctions implemented under former President Donald Trump, which prohibit U.S. entities from engaging in transactions with individuals associated with the Maduro regime. These sanctions have been a critical tool in the U.S. strategy to isolate Maduro’s government and undermine its ability to operate freely on the global stage.

“This sends a message all the way up to the top,” a U.S. official told CNN, highlighting the unprecedented nature of seizing a foreign head of state’s aircraft. “We’re sending a clear message here that no one is above the law, no one is above the reach of U.S. sanctions.”

U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida emphasized the importance of this action, stating, “Our unrelenting commitment to enforcing U.S. export control laws and imposing U.S. sanctions for any violations is evident in this seizure.” Lapointe credited the successful operation to careful planning and coordination between U.S. authorities and their counterparts in the Dominican Republic.

The seizure of Maduro’s plane is more than just a symbolic victory; it demonstrates the reach and impact of U.S. sanctions enforcement. As the U.S. continues to pressure Maduro’s regime, this action sends a clear signal that the international community will not tolerate the illegal activities of rogue states and their leaders.

Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed on this developing issue.