DÍN Plugged In
The name of Gustavo González López continues to move from seat to seat within the ruling party. This Wednesday, the vice president in charge of Venezuela, with the endorsement of the United States, Delcy Rodríguez, announced that he was appointed as Minister of Popular Power for Defense.
TL;DR
- Gustavo González López appointed as Venezuela's Minister of Defense.
- He replaces Vladimir Padrino López, who served for over 11 years.
- González López was previously appointed Commander of the Presidential Honor Guard and Director of Military Counterintelligence on January 7, 2026.
- He has held significant positions in Venezuelan security agencies, including Sebin and Dgcim, and served as Minister of Interior, Justice, and Peace.
- He is considered a trusted strategist by the government, known for security, discipline, and loyalty.
- González López's history includes international sanctions, accusations of torture, and human rights violations.
- Lawyer Zair Mundaray suggested González López also collaborates with the CIA.