United States President Donald Trump has signed an executive order mandating a 25% tariff on any nation importing oil or gas from Venezuela. The measure, which takes effect on April 2, 2025, is part of Trump’s ongoing policy shift aimed at applying pressure on Venezuela and its global trade partners.

According to the signed order, starting April 2, a 25% tariff will apply to all goods imported into the United States from any country that continues to import oil from Venezuela, whether directly or indirectly. The order stipulates that the tariff will remain in effect for one year following the last date on which the country imported Venezuelan oil, unless an earlier expiration is decided by the U.S. government.

President Trump justified the decision by accusing Venezuela of intentionally sending high-level criminals, including murderers and violent individuals, into the United States. He also criticized Venezuela’s opposition to freedoms promoted by the U.S. government, calling the actions deceptive and hostile.

The announcement was met with sharp criticism from Venezuelan authorities. Foreign Minister Yvan Gil described the measure as “arbitrary, illegal and desperate,” and shared a firm rejection of what he labeled a new form of aggression. Speaking via Telegram, Gil stated, “They have not been able to, and will not be able to, stop us. The policy of maximum pressure has failed in Venezuela and around the world.”

Gil further noted that instead of undermining Venezuela’s determination, the decision reaffirms the failure of previous sanctions and pressures imposed by the United States. Venezuela insists that it will continue its economic activities undeterred by external pressures.

The tariff is expected to affect a wide range of international partners engaged in oil and gas trade with Venezuela. The move introduces a layer of secondary sanctions, indirectly punishing third-party countries and companies that do business with Caracas.

As the effective date approaches, global reactions and shifts in energy trade routes may follow, potentially reshaping how international actors engage with Venezuela’s oil sector under the looming tariff policy.