In a surprising turn of events after the "Delcygate" controversy, Delcy Rodríguez, Venezuela's interim president, left her seat during the United Nations General Assembly in New York on Tuesday. She crossed the floor to greet Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez with a hug and a kiss.
As reported by Europa Press, sources from the Moncloa confirmed that Rodríguez requested Sánchez to continue discussions on Venezuela's situation. Sánchez affirmed with a "certainly," highlighting Spain's commitment to the region's future.
Journalist David Alandete vividly described the scene: "Among all attendees, she seeks out one person specifically, traversing the assembly floor to embrace him. Her body language speaks volumes."
Meanwhile, Orlando Avendaño noted that Sánchez initially seemed to ignore Rodríguez's approach but eventually stood up to greet her.
Historical Context and Political Implications
This interaction holds significant political weight due to the backdrop of "Delcygate." Back in January 2020, Rodríguez, then Vice President under Nicolás Maduro and barred from entering the Schengen Area due to EU sanctions, landed at Madrid-Barajas Airport and met with the then Spanish Minister of Transport, José Luis Ábalos.
The Guardia Civil's Central Operative Unit (UCO) investigations, part of the Koldo case, revealed that Sánchez was informed of Rodríguez's visit in advance, reportedly responding with a simple "Okay" via text.
Businessman Víctor de Aldama testified to Spain's National Court that the 2020 visit was pre-arranged weeks earlier, involving a private dinner at a Madrid villa with a "security zone" established by the Interior Ministry to allow Rodríguez's entry without arrest.
In January 2026, Aldama also linked Rodríguez to an envelope reportedly connected to the illegal financing of Spain's Socialist Workers' Party through Venezuelan oil, as reported by El País.
First In-Person Meeting
This encounter at the UN marks the first face-to-face meeting between Sánchez and Rodríguez, who had previously only communicated twice by phone: once in January 2026 to discuss Spain's support for a peaceful transition in Venezuela, and again in June following earthquakes in the country.
Sánchez was joined at the assembly by Vice President Sara Aagesen and Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares, who has advocated for lifting European sanctions on Rodríguez, extended until January 2027, arguing that the EU typically does not sanction top country leaders.
Rodríguez arrived in New York on Monday, landing at New Jersey's Teterboro Airport, where she was welcomed by the U.S. Chargé d'Affaires in Venezuela.
Ongoing Tensions and Diplomatic Efforts
In mid-September, the UN warned that the repressive machinery of Chávez's regime remains "largely intact," with 64 new torture cases documented since January and between 328 and 500 political prisoners. This stark reality contrasts with the increasing diplomatic engagement surrounding Rodríguez.
Spain has extended an invitation to Rodríguez for the Ibero-American Summit in Madrid on November 4-5, although the government acknowledges the challenges of her traveling to Europe while EU sanctions persist.
Key Questions on Delcy Rodríguez and Spain's Diplomatic Relations
What is the significance of Delcy Rodríguez's interaction with Pedro Sánchez at the UN?
The interaction is significant due to its context in the "Delcygate" controversy, highlighting ongoing diplomatic tensions and discussions about Venezuela's future, as well as Spain's role in regional politics.
What were the implications of the "Delcygate" incident in 2020?
"Delcygate" involved Rodríguez entering Spain despite EU sanctions, leading to political fallout and scrutiny over Spain's handling of the situation, revealing potential ties to illegal financing of Spanish political parties.
How does Spain's invitation to Rodríguez for the Ibero-American Summit impact diplomatic relations?
The invitation underscores Spain's diplomatic efforts to engage with Venezuela's leadership, despite the complications posed by EU sanctions, aiming for dialogue and regional stability.