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European Union Moves to Ban Arms Sales to Venezuela

by Associated Press

   BRUSSELS --

   European Union diplomats say the EU is set to ban arms sales to
   Venezuela and could impose asset freezes and travel restrictions on
   some Venezuelan officials to ramp up pressure on President Nicolas
   Maduro.

   Two diplomats confirmed that EU foreign ministers will announce the
   measures at talks in Brussels on Monday. One said the actions are meant
   "to encourage a return to dialogue as soon as possible."

   The diplomats asked to have their names withheld because the measures
   haven't been officially announced.

   The weapons ban would stop sales of military equipment that could be
   used for repression or surveillance of Venezuelans.

   The United States on Thursday put financial sanctions on another 10
   current and former Venezuelan officials over corruption and abuse of
   power allegations related to Maduro's crackdown on opposition.