Rep. Maria Elvira Salazar (R-Fla.) addressed the diplomatic situation regarding Venezuela during a Sunday interview on CBS News. Salazar characterized Venezuela’s interim president, Delcy Rodríguez, as a 'necessary evil' that must be managed until the country can hold free and fair elections.

This commentary comes in the context of reports that former President Donald Trump met with Rodríguez in New York City while attending the United Nations General Assembly. Salazar defended the engagement, suggesting that such meetings are part of a broader strategy to navigate the current political instability in Venezuela. While the administration of the current Venezuelan government remains a point of intense international debate, Salazar’s remarks highlight a pragmatic, albeit controversial, approach to dealing with the country's leadership transition. The Hill reports that Salazar views this interaction as a temporary measure necessary to facilitate a path toward democratic restoration in the region.