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ICC Closes U.S. Sanctions Probe, Opens Belarus Investigation

3/14/2026

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Summary

Story summary

The International Criminal Court closed its investigation into U.S. sanctions on Venezuela for lack of criminal-intent evidence.
The probe began in 2020 after Venezuelan officials claimed sanctions caused suffering.
Prosecutors could not establish the required criminal intent, even though sanctions may have worsened humanitarian conditions.
Separately, the ICC will investigate alleged crimes against humanity in Belarus after Lithuania's request, focusing on the Lukashenka regime's treatment of dissidents.

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Story summary

The International Criminal Court closed its investigation into U.S. sanctions on Venezuela for lack of criminal-intent evidence.
The probe began in 2020 after Venezuelan officials claimed sanctions caused suffering.
Prosecutors could not establish the required criminal intent, even though sanctions may have worsened humanitarian conditions.
Separately, the ICC will investigate alleged crimes against humanity in Belarus after Lithuania's request, focusing on the Lukashenka regime's treatment of dissidents.