President Donald Trump is set to meet Delcy Rodríguez, the acting president of Venezuela, next week in New York City. The informal “pull‑aside” gathering will take place while Trump attends the United Nations General Assembly, according to U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Mike Waltz.
Diplomatic outreach amid regional challenges
Waltz told reporters the meeting is part of a broader diplomatic agenda that includes talks with United Kingdom Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The Trump‑Burnham meeting will be their first since Burnham assumed office in July. In addition, Trump will meet leaders of the Gulf Cooperation Council—Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, Oman, Kuwait and Bahrain—signaling continued engagement with key allies in the Middle East.
Background on Venezuela
Rodríguez assumed leadership in Venezuela after a surprise U.S. military operation in January captured former President Nicolás Maduro and brought him to the United States to face drug‑trafficking charges. The operation, which the Trump administration describes as a decisive step against narcotics and authoritarian rule, left Rodríguez, previously Maduro’s vice president, as the acting head of state.
Last month the United States and Venezuela announced an agreement that would give the United States a stake in Venezuela’s vast oil reserves. Rodríguez called the deal a “step toward economic recovery” that will modernize the country’s oil industry, aligning with the administration’s goal of promoting free‑market energy development abroad.
Administration’s perspective
White House officials emphasized that the meeting underscores America’s commitment to supporting democratic transition and economic revitalization in Venezuela. By engaging directly with Rodríguez, the Trump administration aims to solidify the oil‑reserve agreement and encourage further reforms that could benefit both nations.
Waltz also noted that senior officials could not confirm whether Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu will seek a meeting with Trump during the UN session. Officials suggested it is unlikely, given Netanyahu’s limited time in New York amid Israel’s electoral calendar.
Regional security context
The planned talks come as the United States continues to seek an endgame to the ongoing conflict with Iran, a war that has persisted for more than six months. While officials downplayed the prospect that the Iran war will dominate the UN gathering, they reaffirmed America’s resolve to protect national security interests and support allies in the region.
Overall, the upcoming meetings reflect President Trump’s active diplomatic agenda at the UN, focusing on strengthening alliances, advancing energy partnerships, and promoting stability in a volatile part of the world.
Original reporting: Dallas TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
