High-profile aircraft confiscated
In a dramatic escalation of tensions between Washington and Caracas, U.S. officials have seized a plane believed to be Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro’s primary aircraft. The jet, often likened to the American Air Force One, was taken in the Dominican Republic and subsequently flown to Fort Lauderdale, Florida, according to a report by CNN. Notably, President Maduro was not aboard the aircraft at the time of its seizure.
U.S. and EU challenge Maduro’s election victory
The move comes on the heels of heightened scrutiny over Venezuela’s recent presidential election. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has openly stated that there is “overwhelming evidence” indicating that Venezuela’s opposition was the rightful victor in July’s contested election, which was claimed by Maduro.
“Given the overwhelming evidence, it is clear to the United States and, most importantly, to the Venezuelan people that Edmundo González Urrutia won the most votes in Venezuela’s July 28 presidential election,” Blinken declared.
Echoing Blinken’s sentiments, Josep Borrell, the European Union’s chief diplomat, remarked last week, “we cannot accept the legitimacy of Maduro as elected president.”
Election controversy and protests
Despite the proclamations of Venezuela’s electoral council and top court confirming Maduro as president, completed voting tallies were never published. This opacity has fueled widespread protests and ignited fears of an impending civil war.
Maduro, who has held power since 2013, faces increasing international pressure and internal dissent following the disputed election results.
International implications
The seizure of Maduro’s plane and the subsequent statements from U.S. and EU officials underscore the growing international isolation of the Maduro regime. As the situation continues to unfold, the global community watches closely, concerned about the potential for further destabilization in Venezuela.