Arms ban to put squeeze on president

The European Union has banned arms sales to Venezuela and set up a system to slap asset freezes and travel restrictions on Venezuelan officials as the body sought to ramp up pressure on President Nicolas Maduro.

The move was decided by EU foreign ministers at talks in Brussels. The weapons ban would stop sales of military equipment that could be used for repression or surveillance of Venezuelans.

A statement from ministers said the measures could be expanded by targeting those involved in the violation of democratic principles and human rights.