Credited from: REUTERS
Venezuela's interim President, Delcy Rodriguez, addressed the United Nations General Assembly, promising that elections would be held as part of a transition toward "full democracy." However, she did not provide a specific date for the voting process. Rodriguez stated, "I want to make this very clear at this General Assembly: there will be elections in Venezuela," following her rise to power after a U.S. military operation captured former President Nicolás Maduro in January, according to Reuters, Al Jazeera, and South China Morning Post.
In her remarks, Rodriguez emphasized that the people of Venezuela would determine the best timing for elections and reiterated the government's commitment to ensuring an inclusive and transparent electoral process. She stated that their national institutions are being prepared, reflecting a move toward a "process based on equal conditions for all," according to NPR and Los Angeles Times.
Rodriguez's address marks her first appearance at a UN forum since taking office, highlighting Venezuela's efforts to regain its standing in global diplomacy. During her speech, she expressed gratitude to U.S. President Donald Trump for renewing diplomatic relations, stating, "Today, Venezuela is being reborn." She also addressed the significant challenges faced, including the aftermath of severe earthquakes in June that resulted in over 6,500 deaths, noting that "the country's recovery will take time," according to Reuters and South China Morning Post.
Her recent meetings with Trump focused on economic cooperation, including potential deals regarding Venezuela's vast oil reserves. Rodriguez highlighted the importance of rebuilding the nation's economy and stated the "historic responsibility" of leading Venezuela toward "full democracy, recognized by its own people and by the world." She reiterated a commitment to engage in political dialogue with opposition sectors to stabilize the nation, highlighting that comprehensive changes will be needed, as echoed by Al Jazeera and Los Angeles Times.