Vladimir Padrino López

Vladimir Padrino López is a Venezuelan military officer and politician born in Caracas on May 30, 1963. He graduated from the Military Academy of Venezuela in 1984 and later served as the long-serving Minister of Defense of Venezuela from October 2014 until March 2026, alongside holding roles such as Strategic Operational Commander of the Bolivarian National Armed Forces. In April 2026, he was appointed as the Minister of Agriculture and Lands under acting president Delcy Rodríguez. Throughout his career, Padrino has been a prominent figure in Venezuelan politics and military leadership, while also facing various international sanctions.