U.S. Seizes Venezuelan Jet in Sudden Sanctions Shift

The United States has abruptly changed its strategy against the government of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This shift follows increasing legal challenges to its previous methods. For years, U.S. authorities have focused on arresting individuals and seizing vessels accused of smuggling drugs for Maduro allies. Now, facing greater scrutiny in courts, the campaign is turning toward sanctions and asset seizures. The first major move under this new approach is the seizure of a Boeing 747 cargo jet. U.S. officials linked the aircraft to a sanctioned Iranian airline. A federal judge approved the seizure this week. This tactical pivot aims to maintain pressure on Maduro's administration. The goal is to disrupt financing for the government while avoiding complex international criminal cases that have recently faced legal obstacles.