Venezuela’s Acting Leader Vows Elections at ‘Right Moment’ During U.N. Address

Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela’s acting president, pledged during her first address to the United Nations General Assembly that elections would take place in the South American nation, though she emphasized that the timing would be determined by the Venezuelan people. Speaking to the 81st session of the U.N. on Wednesday, Rodríguez stated, “I wish to state this very clearly before this General Assembly: Elections will be held in Venezuela,” adding that her administration has initiated political dialogue with opposition groups to ensure a process based on equal conditions.

She assured the international body that national institutions would be ready to guarantee an “inclusive and transparent process” when the appropriate moment arrives. Rodríguez, who assumed power after a surprise U.S. military operation in January captured former leader Nicolás Maduro and transported him to the United States to face drug trafficking charges, highlighted a significant shift in bilateral relations.

Her appearance at the U.N. headquarters marks the first visit by a Venezuelan head of state since 2018, when Maduro himself addressed the assembly. Maduro is currently being held in custody near New York while awaiting trial.

Rodríguez described her country’s return to the global stage, noting that the last meeting between the presidents of Venezuela and the United States occurred in 2009. She thanked President Donald Trump for his willingness to resume diplomatic relations and cooperate with her government, pointing to the lifting of sanctions against her in April as a key step toward recognizing her authority.

Reflecting on recent challenges, Rodríguez referenced the devastating earthquakes that struck north-central Venezuela on June 24. The magnitude 7.2 and 7.5 quakes killed more than 6,500 people and caused widespread destruction. She framed these events alongside a “crisis of political coexistence” that had disrupted the nation’s interaction with the world.

“Today, Venezuela is being reborn,” Rodríguez said, outlining goals to resolve differences through dialogue and expand cooperation in energy, security, and the fight against transnational crime. However, she acknowledged that the path forward would not be simple, addressing both the international community and her domestic audience with a message of cautious optimism.