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Snapshot 3:Mon, Sep 2, 2024 9:00:48 PM GMT last edited by JoseMoura

US Seizes Nicolás Maduro's Plane in the Dominican Republic

US Seizes Nicolás Maduro's Plane in the Dominican Republic

Above: Incumbent President of Venezuela Nicolás Maduro looks forward during the 'Gran Marcha Mundial por la Paz' in his support on August 17, 2024 in Caracas, Venezuela. Image copyright: *** GETTY *** Alfredo Lasry R/Getty Images

The Facts

  • US Attorney General Merrick Garland announced on Monday that the Justice Department seized a Dassault Falcon 900EX aircraft used for the benefit of Venezuela's Nicolás Maduro in the Dominican Republic earlier in the day.

  • This comes as CNN broke the news that the aircraft known as Venezuela's Air Force One — and registered to San Marino — was now in US custody. The plane was flown to Fort Lauderdale, Fla., landing shortly before noon.


The Spin

This move is part of a maximum pressure campaign on the authoritarian Maduro regime at home and abroad that could soon prompt further sanctions so the dictator feels consequences for rigging the election. Moreover, it delivers a clear message that no one is above the law to illegally acquire an aircraft and smuggle it out of the US.

It's hypocritical to claim that this so-called seizure has something to do with the presidential elections in Venezuela, given that the US stole a Venezuela-owned Boeing 747-300M cargo plane in cooperation with Argentina in February. Additionally, Venezuelan bank accounts and assets worth $2B have been seized in recent years.


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