Trump and Venezuela's Delcy Rodríguez Hold First Meeting Since Maduro's Removal

After years of crisis and international isolation, Venezuela saw a dramatic shift in January 2026 when Nicolás Maduro was removed from power in a US-led operation. Delcy Rodríguez, previously a prominent government official, was named interim president as Venezuela entered a transitional phase.

The United States, under Donald Trump, quickly recognized Rodríguez's government. Both leaders signaled willingness to engage, hoping to stabilize Venezuela's economy and encourage a return to democratic rule. This set the stage for their first face-to-face meeting, which became a focal point during the run-up to the UN General Assembly.

On September 18, 2026, news broke that Donald Trump would meet Delcy Rodríguez in New York during the UN General Assembly. Rodríguez arrived in the US on September 21, her first visit as interim president, and her arrival drew attention due to the use of a private jet operated by a Colombian company.

The meeting itself took place on September 22 at a Trump-hosted reception at the Lotte Palace Hotel. This marked the first time Trump and Rodríguez met since Maduro was captured. The encounter was described as historic, with both leaders posing for photos and discussing issues such as Venezuelan debt, energy, and the push for free elections.

While the leaders met, protests erupted outside the UN headquarters. Venezuelan exiles and activists expressed opposition to Rodríguez's participation, highlighting ongoing divisions within the Venezuelan diaspora.

Following the meeting, Rodríguez addressed the UN General Assembly. She thanked Trump for reopening diplomatic channels and pledged an "orderly" return to democracy, promising elections but not specifying a date. The international community watched closely, as Rodríguez emphasized a break from the "extremism" of the previous regime.

Venezuela is now led by Delcy Rodríguez, who is working to restore diplomatic relations with the United States and other countries. The Trump-Rodríguez meeting has been hailed as a turning point, but many questions remain about the timeline and guarantees for free elections.

Rodríguez's promises at the UN have brought cautious optimism but also skepticism, especially among Venezuelans abroad and opposition groups. The country's immediate future hinges on whether these pledges will be turned into concrete political reforms and transparent elections.

The next key development will be the announcement of a date and framework for Venezuela's presidential elections. Observers are also watching how the US and Venezuela handle their renewed diplomatic and economic relations, especially regarding sanctions and the oil sector.