LONDON (Reuters) - Britain on Friday set out new sanctions targeting 15 individuals associated with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government, alleging they were responsible for human rights violations and undermining democracy and the rule of law.

Canada on Friday imposed sanctions on 14 current and former senior officials of the Venezuelan government, alleging that they had engaged in activities that have supported human rights violations in Venezuela.

Maduro and his aides have always rejected sanctions by the U.S. and others, saying they are illegitimate measures that amount to an "economic war" designed to cripple Venezuela. H

Britain announced new sanctions on Friday against 15 people associated with Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government, saying they were responsible for human rights violations and undermining democracy and the rule of law.

Maduro, president since 2013, was declared the winner of July's election by both Venezuela's electoral authority and top court, though detailed tallies confirming his victory have never been published.

Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro was sworn in for a third presidential term after an election the opposition says was rigged.

The US has announced an increased $25m (£20.4m) re Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro on the day he was sworn in for a third six-year term in office. The inauguration ceremony was overshadowed by recrimination from the international community and Venezuelan opposition leaders.