The United States has confiscated an airplane belonging to Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, citing violations of US sanctions and other criminal issues related to its acquisition, CNN reported.

The aircraft was transported to Florida on Monday, according to two US officials.

This incident marks a significant escalation in the already strained relations between the US and Venezuela, as the US continues to investigate what it considers corrupt practices by the Venezuelan government. The plane, often described as Venezuela’s version of Air Force One, has been seen during Maduro’s state visits worldwide.

“This sends a message all the way to the top,” one US official told the American media outlet. “Seizing the plane of a foreign head of state over criminal matters is unprecedented. We are making it clear that no one is above the law or beyond the reach of US sanctions.”

The aircraft involved in the recent seizure, a Dassault Falcon 900 valued at approximately $13 million, had been located in the Dominican Republic in recent months. While US officials did not specify the reason for its presence, it provided an opportunity for the seizure.

Multiple federal agencies participated in the operation, including Homeland Security Investigations, Commerce agents, the Bureau of Industry and Security, and the Justice Department.