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Milei Taps Active General Carlos Presti to Lead Defense, Prompting Backlash

Calls mount for him to retire from the army before an early-December swearing-in.

Overview

  • The presidency confirmed Lieutenant General Carlos Alberto Presti will replace Luis Petri, marking the first time since the return to democracy that a serving officer is set to head Argentina's Defense Ministry.
  • Human-rights leader Estela de Carlotto denounced the appointment as a 'provocation,' while opposition figures such as Agustín Rossi called it a regression for democratic norms.
  • Former defense minister Julio Martínez supported the choice but said Presti must request retirement to assume the post as a civilian, citing personnel laws.
  • El Cronista reports the formal assumption is being targeted for around December 3 and describes a likely reordering of top brass influenced by Karina Milei, a move seen as heightening internal tensions.
  • El Tribuno says Presti and outgoing minister Petri will appear together at an Army vehicle presentation, as the incoming leadership faces pressing issues including a heavily indebted IOSFA, low pay, and equipment shortfalls.