President Javier Milei sworn in Lt. Gen. Carlos Presti as defense minister, replacing Luis Petri, who took over as national deputy.
The event took place in the White Room of the Casa Rosada in a ceremony where Presti was accompanied by government officials, family members, friends and soldiers.
His appointment sparked opposition from part of the opposition and criticism within the force, which called for his resignation. However, Presti himself announced that he would take a leave of absence to take over the position.
He is a professional soldier with operational experience. He trained at the National Military College, graduating in 1987 as an infantry lieutenant and holding positions as commander of the IV Airborne Brigade, chief of the 601st Air Assault Regiment and director of the Military College.
He also held key roles in international missions as chief of the Argentine Peace Battalion in Haiti and had diplomatic experience as a defense attaché in several Central American embassies.
At the end of 2023, he was appointed Chief of the Army General Staff by decree, replacing 22 senior officers who had retired.
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