politics
Milei warns UK firms over Malvinas oil on war anniversary
During a Malvinas Day ceremony President Javier Milei renewed Argentina's sovereignty claim, promised diplomatic action against UK-backed oil plans near the islands and announced funds to strengthen the military.
Apr 2nd 2026 ยท Argentina
Insights
- President Javier Milei vowed to use all necessary diplomatic measures to oppose oil exploration around the Malvinas Islands.
- He reaffirmed Argentina's sovereignty claim over the Malvinas, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands and called for renewed negotiations with the United Kingdom.
- Milei said 10 percent of fiscal revenues from state privatisations will be allocated to buy weapons and capital goods to rebuild the armed forces.
- He singled out the Sea Lion project led by Rockhopper and Navitas and recalled Argentina's formal protest against unilateral resource development.
- The Sea Lion field is estimated to contain up to 1.7 billion barrels and is expected to start producing in 2028.
- Opposition leaders and veterans accused the government of politicising the Malvinas cause and warned the issue is losing prominence in national policy.
Sources
- Milei presides over Falklands fallen tribute amid thaw in relations with London en.mercopress.com
- Milei reaffirms Falklands sovereignty, warns oil firms and vows to rebuild the armed forces en.mercopress.com
- Milei marks war anniversary with Malvinas oil warning, renews sovereignty claim batimes.com.ar
- What did Milei say about Falklands oil and why does it matter for Sea Lion? en.mercopress.com