According to a report, the United States seized the plane of Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro on Monday in the Dominican Republic due to violation of sanctions imposed by the United States. CNN.
The aircraft is considered the most important in the Venezuelan Air Force. “This hijacking sends a message to the top leadership. The hijacking of a foreign head of state’s aircraft is unprecedented for criminal reasons. We are sending a clear message that no one is above the law, no one is beyond the reach of U.S. sanctions,” a U.S. official close to the White House said.
US authorities claim the plane was purchased illegally through a shell company and smuggled out of the United States.
The plane, registered in San Marino, has been frequently used by Maduro for trips abroad, including to Guyana and Cuba earlier this year.
The situation in Venezuela has implications for U.S. policy as millions of people flee the country, many choosing the U.S.-Mexico border.
The Dassault Falcon 900 aircraft is valued at approximately 11 million euros. in the Dominican Republic over the past few months.