Argentina's Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein presents resignation to President Javier Milei

Argentina's Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein has presented his resignation to President Javier Milei, kicking off the head of state’s anticipated Cabinet reshuffle a few days ahead of schedule.

Werthein, 69, took office in October 2024 to replace ex-minister Diana Mondino and leaves office just one week shy of his first anniversary in post. He served as Argentina’s ambassador to the United States prior to his appointment.

His resignation arrives just four days before key legislative elections that will serve as a referendum on Milei’s government on date and future reform plans. 

A number of foreign service appointments recently confirmed by Werthein, designating officials at various countries and consulates worldwide, will be "reviewed individually," briefed the Casa Rosada.

Milei, 55, confirmed earlier this week that he would reshuffle his Cabinet after the October 26 midterm elections. Trailing a “reconfiguration” of his line-up of ministers, the La Libertad Avanza leader said he intended to wait for the results before finalising his line up.

“I have a contract with the people, with the Argentine public, and I intend to fulfil it. What does that mean? That heading into the second half of this term, I will be reshuffling the Cabinet to achieve the goals of second-generation reforms,” the President pledged during an interview with state broadcaster TV Pública.

“On the night of the 26th [of October], once I have all the figures, I’ll assess what kind of structure I need in order to meet those goals,” he declared.

Milei’s team is reviewing each government department’s performance and has hinted he may create new portfolios or merge existing ones. 

The reshuffle is also prompted by an exodus of key officials, many of whom are running for legislative posts. 

There is friction between some figures, not least Werthein, who reportedly voiced opposition to the potential appointment of top presidential advisor Santiago Caputo, who up until now has remained behind the scenes.

Caputo, who until now has operated behind the scenes, is now expected to be granted a key position. Which position is yet to be defined.

“Everything is under review. What the President envisions is a transformation of power in which everyone will be satisfied,” said a senior Casa Rosada source, speaking on condition of anonymity.

Rumoured departures from the Cabinet include Justice Minister Mariano Cuneo Libarona, National Security Minister Patricia Bullrich (who is running for senator) and Defence Minister Luis Petri (who is also running for office). Lisandro Catalán (Interior) could also be removed.

Cabinet Chief Guillmero Francos could also be set for a switch with his name rumoured as Werthein’s replacement. Another under consolidation for the post is Federico Pinedo, the former G20 sherpa, who has increased his social media activity in recent days, demonstrating complete alignment with the Casa Rosada.

Among the likely incomers are Security Secretary Alejandra Monteoliva, a Bullrich ally who looks set to replace her, and Justice Secretary Sebastián Amerio, who answers to Caputo.

Speculation is also rife over the inclusion of figures from Maurico Macri’s PRO party, including the former president himself, and former energy minister Javier Iguacel.

Prior to his resignation, Werthein had come under fierce criticism from Milei supporters on social media, who slammed his handling of the October 14 bilateral meeting between the President and his US counterpart, Donald Trump, at the White House in Washington.

The meeting was reduced to a greeting and lunch, with confusing statements about US financial support, which Trump implied was conditional on a victory for Milei's party in Sunday’s election.

The foreign minister had hoped for presidential backing in the face of criticism, but this did not materialise, government sources told local media.

– TIMES/NA/AFP