Diplomacy ‘only way’ to recover Malvinas, says Argentine defense minister
The remarks follow Trump’s warnings that he could be called to settle a ‘potential disaster’ of a conflict over the islands La entrada Diplomacy ‘only way’ to recover Malvinas, says Argentine defense minister se publicó primero en Buenos Aires Herald .
Argentine Defense Minister Carlos Presti stated that the sole method for Argentina to regain control of the Malvinas Islands is through peaceful and diplomatic means. This statement came after U.S. President Donald Trump suggested he might be drawn into a potential conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the islands.
Trump's remarks seemingly indicated the possibility of armed confrontation, however Presti interpreted Trump's comments as not targeting anyone, but rather urging for a peaceful resolution. Presti asserted that all Argentines recognize this as a national cause and that sovereignty over the islands can only be reclaimed through peaceful and diplomatic negotiations.
The issue of the islands has recently gained prominence in both Argentina and the U.K., especially following President Javier Milei's announcement of sanctions and lawsuits against foreign companies involved in an oil drilling project near the Malvinas Islands. Presti also noted that President Milei and Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno were reviewing Trump's statements.
The defense minister emphasized the need for peaceful resolution while highlighting Argentina's strategic alliance with the United States, which allows the country to enhance its capabilities in the Southern Hemisphere. He also mentioned that Milei had instructed him to create optimal strategic conditions in the South Atlantic, with the completion of a naval base in Ushuahia being a crucial step.
Milei had previously mentioned this base as part of his government's efforts to bolster defense resources and military presence in the South Atlantic. Construction of the base began in 2022 and, according to Presti, will commence in January 2024 at an investment of US$450 million, transforming into a commercial logistics hub. Trump's comments on the matter were made during a visit to Ireland, where he was questioned about his discussions with U.K. Prime Minister Andy Burnham regarding the sovereignty dispute.
Trump admitted to having doubts about the UK's willingness and ability to defend the Malvinas, given their current challenges, such as immigration issues and energy access. He also expressed confidence in his potential role in resolving the dispute should it arise.
Written by urgent.news from Buenos Aires Herald's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
