The United States has escalated its actions against the Venezuelan government by seizing multiple aircraft linked to President Nicolás Maduro and his administration. In a series of operations primarily conducted in the Dominican Republic, the U.S. has formally taken ownership of at least two planes, including one owned by the Venezuelan Vice President. These seizures were justified under allegations of violations of U.S. export control and sanctions laws. U.S. officials, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio, have emphasized that these actions are part of a broader strategy to enforce compliance and curb the activities of the Maduro regime. The latest operations underline the U.S. commitment to maintain a hard line against perceived threats from Venezuela, especially in light of ongoing tensions between the two nations.