Related videos:
The confiscation in the Dominican Republic, with the presence of U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, of a plane linked to the Venezuelan Government, has provoked an outraged reaction from the Cuban regime.
The ruler Miguel Díaz-Canel and the chancellor Bruno Rodríguez expressed their rejection of the measure adopted by the Donald Trump administration, labeling it as an act of "modern piracy" against their regional ally.
According to the Cuban leader, “the U.S. government reaffirms its disregard for international law by illegally confiscating a Venezuelan plane. This act qualifies as modern piracy and is a further demonstration of its commitment to the Monroe Doctrine, a neocolonial tool of domination.”
While his chancellor, Bruno Rodríguez-Parrilla directly pointed to Secretary Rubio, saying that “he aims to become the 'Sheriff' of Latin America and the Caribbean with the illegal confiscation of a Venezuelan plane”.
In addition, he stated that "it constitutes a condemnable and arbitrary act of modern piracy, which violates International Law and the UN Charter".
The seizure of the aircraft took place on February 6, 2025, citing violations of U.S. sanctions, export controls, and money laundering.
The aircraft, a Dassault Falcon 200, was used by high-ranking officials of Nicolás Maduro's government for international travel.
This action is part of a series of measures that the United States has implemented against the Venezuelan government in recent months.
In September 2024, the U.S. confiscated another official plane of Maduro in the Dominican Republic, arguing that its acquisition violated U.S. sanctions and export control laws.
The Venezuelan government has rejected these actions, describing them as "recurrent criminal practices" and stating that it reserves the right to take legal action.
These seizures have heightened tensions between Washington and Caracas, especially following the controversial elections in Venezuela and the sanctions imposed by the United States on the Venezuelan energy sector.
For its part, Cuba and Venezuela maintain a mutually dependent relationship, in which Havana has leveraged Venezuelan resources to sustain its economic model, while Caracas has relied on Cuban expertise in social control and political repression.
Despite the economic challenges and the decrease in Venezuelan support, the alliance remains crucial for both regimes in their struggle to maintain power against external pressures.
Frequently Asked Questions about the confiscation of Maduro's plane and the reaction of the Cuban regime
Why did the United States confiscate Nicolás Maduro's plane?
The United States confiscated Nicolás Maduro's plane due to violations of U.S. sanctions, export controls, and alleged money laundering. The plane was seized in the Dominican Republic and transported to Florida.
How has the Cuban regime reacted to the confiscation of the plane?
The Cuban regime, represented by Miguel Díaz-Canel and Bruno Rodríguez, described the confiscation of the plane as an act of "modern piracy" and a violation of international law. They consider this action as part of a policy of aggression by the United States.
What implications do the U.S. sanctions have on Venezuela?
The United States sanctions on Venezuela aim to pressure the government of Nicolás Maduro for illegal practices and human rights violations. They include economic and trade restrictions that impact the Venezuelan government and its allies.
What is Venezuela's position on the confiscation of the plane?
The Venezuelan government has labeled the seizure of the plane as an act of "piracy" and a "recurrent criminal practice" by the United States. Venezuela asserts that these actions violate international law and impact its sovereignty.
What consequences could this incident have on the relationships between the U.S., Cuba, and Venezuela?
This incident could exacerbate existing tensions between the United States, Cuba, and Venezuela, escalating diplomatic and economic confrontations. The confiscation of the aircraft is part of a series of measures aimed at holding the Maduro government and its allies accountable for their illegal actions.
Filed under:
