President Donald Trump says he will impose a 25% tariff on any nation that purchases oil from Venezuela.

In a post on Truth Social, he said, “Venezuela has been very hostile to the United States and the Freedoms which we espouse. Therefore, any Country that purchases Oil and/or Gas from Venezuela will be forced to pay a Tariff of 25% to the United States on any Trade they do with our Country.”

Mr Trump claimed, without evidence, that Venezuela had “purposefully and deceitfully” sent criminals, including gang members to the United States.

CNN says the news comes after reports that Trump is set to delay prior tariffs he announced, including charging 25% on imports of pharmaceuticals, cars and lumber.

Those tariffs were set to go into effect April 2nd, the same day Mr Trump said he will announce a number of reciprocal tariffs on other nations — a day he refers to as “liberation day.”