On March 24, 2025, President Donald J. Trump issued an order imposing tariffs on countries that import Venezuelan oil, citing national security concerns. This measure follows a declaration of a national emergency related to Venezuela, which has been in effect since 2015, and aims to counter activities by the Maduro regime and the Tren de Aragua gang, which has been designated as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The tariffs, set at 25%, will take effect on April 2, 2025, and will apply to goods from any country that imports Venezuelan oil, either directly or indirectly.

The order grants authority to the Secretary of State and other cabinet members to determine the imposition of these tariffs at their discretion. The White House emphasizes that the actions of the Maduro regime continue to threaten U.S. national security and foreign policy, necessitating further economic measures. Existing sanctions on Venezuela will remain in effect, and this order is part of a broader strategy to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis and the destabilizing actions of the Venezuelan government.

Additionally, the order states that the tariffs will expire one year after the last date of Venezuelan oil imports by a specific country, unless determined otherwise by the Secretary of Commerce in consultation with other officials. This approach is intended to ensure compliance and monitor the impact of the tariffs on U.S. interests and the situation in Venezuela. The ongoing review process will involve periodic assessments by the Secretary of State and the Secretary of Commerce to evaluate the effectiveness of the tariffs and the conduct of the Maduro regime.

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