Venezuela's acting president, Delcy Rodriguez, delivered her first address to the United Nations General Assembly since her rise to power. During her speech, she assured that elections would take place in Venezuela, with the citizens determining the "right moment" for the process. Rodriguez emphasized that her government has initiated a political dialogue with opposition sectors to ensure that the electoral process is conducted under equitable conditions for all participants.

Rodriguez stated, "I wish to state this very clearly before this General Assembly: Elections will be held in Venezuela." She reassured the United Nations that the country's institutions would be prepared to guarantee an inclusive and transparent electoral process when the time arrives. Rodriguez took over the presidency following a U.S. military raid in January, which resulted in the capture of then-leader Nicolás Maduro, who is currently facing drug trafficking charges in the United States.

This address marks the first visit by a Venezuelan head of state to the United States since Maduro attended the U.N. General Assembly in 2018. Rodriguez's speech also represents a significant step in Venezuela's reintegration into international diplomacy. She pointed out that the last meeting between Venezuelan and U.S. presidents occurred in 2009, signaling a lack of direct communication in the years since.

During her address, Rodriguez reflected on the resilience of her nation, stating that Venezuela is "coming back strong" after facing significant setbacks, including two powerful earthquakes on June 24 that claimed over 6,500 lives and left many missing. She acknowledged the impact of a crisis of political coexistence that has disrupted not only national life but also Venezuela's interaction with the global community. Furthermore, she attributed certain adverse conditions to "interests alien to the common good of Venezuelans."

Rodriguez also navigated the delicate balance of addressing both her citizens and the U.S. government holding her predecessor. She expressed gratitude towards U.S. President Donald Trump for his openness to rekindle diplomatic relations with Venezuela. "We are working earnestly to resolve existing differences through dialogue," she mentioned, while also emphasizing the importance of cooperation in sectors such as energy and security, which benefit both nations.

Since Rodriguez assumed power, her relationship with the U.S. has strengthened, particularly following the lifting of sanctions against her in April, which has been viewed as a move by Washington to recognize her as a legitimate authority. She underscored the need for patience in rebuilding the nation, stating that "the country's recovery will take time," and that "rebuilding the national soul will be our priority." Rodriguez expressed optimism about the future, asserting, "Today, Venezuela is being reborn."

Prior to her U.N. speech, Rodriguez met with Trump during a reception he hosted at a hotel in New York, marking their first meeting in person since the operation that captured Maduro. They discussed enhancing the bilateral relationship and exploring cooperation in strategic areas such as energy and security. This meeting occurred in the wake of a recent agreement that grants the U.S. a stake in Venezuela's vast oil reserves, a deal Rodriguez described as essential for economic modernization.

Rodriguez committed herself to leading Venezuela from uncertainty and conflict into a phase of full democracy, one that is recognized both nationally and globally. She concluded her address by stating, "Venezuela wants to breathe freely and exercise its rights as a sovereign nation without any kind of interference." This speech symbolizes a significant moment in Venezuela's political landscape as it seeks to reclaim its position in the international arena.