U.S. set to seize Venezuelan President Maduro's jet in Dominican Republic during Rubio’s Central American tour

U.S. government, under the Trump administration, is set to seize a second plane linked to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro, which is currently in the Dominican Republic. Senator Marco Rubio will announce the seizure during his visit to Santo Domingo, as part of his five-nation Central American tour. The plane, a Dassault Falcon 200, has been used by Maduro and top officials for international trips, violating U.S. sanctions. The U.S. previously seized another Maduro-associated plane, a Dassault Falcon 900EX, in September 2024. The current seizure was facilitated by U.S. officials, including Rubio, with more than $230,000 allocated for storage and maintenance fees.

Why is the U.S. seizing Maduro’s plane?

The U.S. has accused Maduro's government of violating sanctions, with these planes used for unauthorized travel to countries such as Greece, Turkey, and Russia. The seized plane is seen as part of Washington's efforts to pressure Maduro’s regime and limit his international reach. Approval for this action involved Rubio signing a foreign aid freeze waiver to cover the costs related to maintaining the plane.

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This move follows recent efforts by U.S. special envoy Richard Grenell, who returned from Venezuela after securing the release of six detained Americans. This represents a broader U.S. strategy to target assets of the Maduro government, believed to be acquired through hidden financial maneuvers, including shell companies.

During Rubio’s trip, a related diplomatic issue arose with Panama over claims that U.S. warships could transit the Panama Canal without fees, a point disputed by Panamanian President José Raúl Mulino. This tension reflects broader concerns by the Trump administration regarding Chinese influence in the region.

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FAQs:

Why is the U.S. seizing Maduro's plane?
For violating U.S. sanctions on Venezuela.

Where is the plane currently located?
In the Dominican Republic.