The U.S. Department of Justice has seized a Dassault Falcon 900EX jet, owned by Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, citing violations of U.S. export control and sanctions laws. The aircraft was seized in the Dominican Republic and flown to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, after being allegedly purchased for $13 million through a shell company and smuggled out of the U.S. Additionally, U.S. officials mentioned that the plane had been used exclusively for military flights in Venezuela since May 2023. Attorney General Merrick Garland emphasized the government's commitment to enforcing these sanctions to prevent misuse of American resources. There are speculations that the U.S. might return the plane to former opposition leader Juan Guaido, as suggested by Russian officials. This seizure follows a controversial election in which Maduro was declared the winner amidst widespread protests.