The announced departure of Minister Luis Petri, who will assume his seat as a national deputy for Mendoza on December 10, has sparked an internal dispute to take over the Ministry of Defense of the Nation. This issue appears to be both technical and political.
A key figure is criminal defense lawyer Luciana Carrasco, the current Chief of Staff of the ministry. Although considered the least experienced in direct political leadership, she is backed by Petri himself to ensure continuity. However, her connection to Luis González Day, a military intelligence lobbyist linked to kirchnerism, raises questions. This contrast—a kirchnerist lobbyist operating in a ministry dominated by the libertarian coalition—adds another variable to the board. Will her connection to military intelligence be an asset or an obstacle in her appointment process?
Other candidates include Brigadier General Xavier Isaac, who has military backing and a technical agenda focused on modernization, and former Senator Federico Pinedo, whose profile is considered unviable in the short term.
The government's urgency lies in avoiding a power vacuum in Defense that could affect relations with the Armed Forces and the execution of key internal reforms. According to various government sources, the final decision rests with President Javier Milei, who could formalize the appointment before December 10 to ensure continuity.
'Yes, there is always a dark horse.'
