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Venezuela Imposes Harsh Penalties for "Piracy" Amid U.S. Pressure

12/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Venezuela's National Assembly, aligned with Nicolás Maduro, passed a law imposing 15 to 20-year prison terms for promoting acts labeled as "piracy" or economic blockades.
The law authorizes fines and asset seizures.
The government says the measure is justified as compliant with international law amid intensified U.S. pressure, including the seizure of oil tankers.
U.N. officials note increased repression and arbitrary detentions in recent months.

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Story summary

Venezuela's National Assembly, aligned with Nicolás Maduro, passed a law imposing 15 to 20-year prison terms for promoting acts labeled as "piracy" or economic blockades.
The law authorizes fines and asset seizures.
The government says the measure is justified as compliant with international law amid intensified U.S. pressure, including the seizure of oil tankers.
U.N. officials note increased repression and arbitrary detentions in recent months.