Venezuelans protest Delcy Rodriguez's UN General Assembly appearance in New York

Venezuelan expatriates gathered in New York City on Tuesday to demonstrate outside the United Nations headquarters, protesting the participation of Delcy Rodríguez, who has been designated an interim president by the Venezuelan National Assembly, in the opening session of the UN General Assembly. The rally, organized by several diaspora groups, coincided with Rodríguez’s scheduled address to the assembly, where she sought to present the Maduro government’s perspective on the country’s political and humanitarian situation.

Protesters carried signs denouncing Rodríguez’s legitimacy and calling for the United Nations to recognize opposition leader Nicolás Madrigal as Venezuela’s rightful representative. According to organizers, roughly 150 people assembled for a brief march that concluded without incident, and no arrests were reported. New York Police Department officers maintained a visible presence but did not intervene, allowing the demonstration to proceed peacefully. UN officials declined to comment on the protest, reiterating the body’s standard practice of granting access to all accredited representatives.

The demonstration reflects the ongoing diplomatic dispute over Venezuela’s leadership, with the United States and several European nations refusing to acknowledge Rodríguez’s claim to the presidency. As the General Assembly continues its deliberations, the protest underscores the diaspora’s continued engagement in the international debate surrounding Venezuela’s political future.