The new law targets opposition leaders, criminalizing support for U.S. sanctions with convictions carrying sentences of at least 25 years in prison.

Venezuelan lawmakers have approved a bill that codifies economic sanctions, like those imposed by the United States, as a crime against humanity and allows the prosecution of anyone who expresses support for the measures.

Venezuelan lawmakers have passed a controversial law that labels economic sanctions, such as those imposed by the United States, as crimes against humanity. This decision has raised alarms both inside and outside the country,

National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez, center, holds a bill that codifies economic sanctions as a crime against humanity and allows prosecution of anyone who expresses support for the measures,

Assembly passes law that would ban officials who support international sanctions from holding office for up to 60 years.