US move against Maduro: Plane seized over alleged violations

The United States (US) Department of Justice reported that the 'presidential' plane, which Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro frequently uses for international travel, was seized in the Dominican Republic.

It was argued that the plane was purchased through a shell company, taken out of the US, and that sanctions were violated.

While the aircraft in question was being transported to the US, Venezuela characterized the action as 'piracy'.

According to the results announced on July 29 in Venezuela, Maduro had won the presidential election with 51.20 percent of the vote.

The Washington administration had supported the opposition, which rejected the election results.