The EU is working on new sanctions against North Korea over its nuclear and weapons programs and on Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro's government over its authoritarian rule, The Wall Street Journal reported, citing officials as sources.

According to the report, EU foreign ministers will approve on Oct. 16 a new set of measures against North Korea, including a total ban on EU investment in the reclusive nation and an asset ban and travel freeze on three people and six North Korean entities.

The EU will also stop the sale of refined petroleum products and crude oil and cut foreign currency flows to Pyongyang by not renewing work permits for North Korean workers on EU territory.

After recently agreeing to adopt measures against Venezuela, EU officials are set to define a list of sanctions targets on Oct. 17, the report said. The EU may also adopt a legal act allowing the quick imposition of sanctions on Venezuelan officials in case of further crackdowns on the country's opposition.