Delcy Rodríguez Attends UN Summit in the United States

Published on January 22, 2026 | Translated from Spanish
Delcy Rodríguez, Executive Vice President of Venezuela, speaking at a podium during the United Nations Ocean Conference.

Delcy Rodríguez Attends UN Summit in the United States

The Executive Vice President of Venezuela, Delcy Rodríguez, is in U.S. territory to participate in the United Nations Ocean Conference. This trip constitutes an unprecedented event, as it is the first time in more than a quarter of a century that a sitting Venezuelan president sets foot in the country. The journey takes place even as Rodríguez faces economic restrictive measures imposed by Washington. 🌎

A Trip That Marks a Diplomatic Milestone

The presence of the high-ranking official in New York breaks a prolonged hiatus in direct contacts at the highest level. Analysts highlight the unusual nature of a sanctioned person being able to enter the nation that applies those sanctions. This move generates speculation about a possible change in tone in the complex bilateral relationship, historically fractured.

Key Points of the Visit:
  • It is the first official visit by a sitting Venezuelan president to the U.S. in more than 25 years.
  • Rodríguez maintains active economic sanctions from the U.S. government.
  • Her participation is framed within a UN multilateral forum, which facilitated entry permission.
"We are in the process of dialoguing with the United States to address our differences and difficulties," Rodríguez declared at the summit.

The Context of Dialogue and Sanctions

The coercive measures against Rodríguez and other members of Nicolás Maduro's government are based on accusations of corruption and alleged human rights violations. Her ability to travel despite this status raises questions about the evolution of the Biden administration's foreign policy toward Caracas. Experts are watching to see if this contact can lead to broader conversations.

Elements Defining the Scenario:
  • Individual sanctions did not prevent entry into the country for an international event.
  • Rodríguez's statements point to an explicit desire to reduce tensions.
  • The meeting occurs in a neutral forum, although on U.S. soil.

An Unexpected Turn in Relations

Diplomacy sometimes presents turns that few predict. The visit of a high-ranking sanctioned official to the capital of the country that imposes those restrictions exceeds any expectation and demonstrates that communication channels, though tense, are not completely closed. This episode could set a precedent for exploring a gradual normalization of ties between the two nations. 🤝