US seizes second Venezuelan aircraft amid sanctions

The United States has seized a second aircraft linked to Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro amidst ongoing international sanctions targeting his regime. This Dassault Falcon 2000EX jet was confiscated in the Dominican Republic during U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio's visit, aimed at strengthening regional cooperation. The aircraft is owned by Petroleos de Venezuela, S.A., and was reportedly used to circumvent U.S. sanctions by being maintained with American-made parts, violating export control laws. This action follows a similar seizure of a different plane in September 2024, underscoring the U.S.'s commitment to hold accountable those who support the Maduro regime. The Venezuelan government has protested the seizure, labeling it an infringement on its sovereignty and adding to the already strained relations between the two countries. The U.S. continues to pressure Maduro's government, aiming for democratic reforms amidst Venezuela's economic turmoil and political unrest.