The meeting, arranged by Trump during a late‑night reception on the UNGA floor, was described by Rubio as short yet important, marking Rodríguez’s first official visit to the United States since American forces captured former President Nicolás Maduro in a January raid.
Rubio told reporters that Venezuela “probably has the world’s largest sovereign debt that has to be restructured” and emphasized that debt restructuring is essential for the country’s future success, adding that the United States is willing to help provided the process follows the right procedures.
Venezuela’s government and its state oil company, Petróleos de Venezuela (PDVSA), are currently in default on roughly $60 billion of bonds. Analysts warn that when accrued interest, additional claims and arbitration awards are factored in, the nation’s total liabilities could exceed $150 billion.
The discussion comes amid heightened U.S. interest in stabilising Venezuela’s economy and energy sector, which has been crippled by years of sanctions, hyperinflation and political turmoil. By engaging directly with Rodríguez, the U.S. signals a willingness to play a role in any future debt‑restructuring plan.
Rubio did not detail any specific U.S. actions, but his comments suggest that Washington may support a multilateral effort to negotiate with bondholders and creditors, a step that could pave the way for renewed investment in Venezuela’s oil industry and broader economic recovery.