Argentina’s President Javier Milei has revived tensions surrounding the disputed Falkland Islands, confirming his nation’s sovereignty and hinting at a bold plan to reclaim the territory.
“We have grown tired of hearing over the past decades’ politicians beating their chests defending our just claim to the islands, without having a single result to show for it after all these years,” he said in a fiery address on Tuesday. Milei was speaking at an event commemorating those who died in the 1982 conflict with the United Kingdom.
The leader of La Libertad Avanza vowed to usher in “a new era of reconciliation with the Armed Forces” and to outline a “clear road map” aimed at “returning the islands to Argentine hands”.
The Falklands, a contested archipelago known as Islas Malvinas in Argentina and the Falkland Islands in the UK, lie approximately 480 kilometres (298 miles) from mainland Argentina, which lays claim to them based on historical precedent.
“This time, in my government, the claim for the Falklands is real and sincere, not like others who impose false words to beat their chests shouting patriotism,” Milei added.
However, Britain has consistently maintained its historical sovereignty over the islands and has rebuffed Argentina’s claim, citing a 2013 referendum in which Falkland Islanders voted overwhelmingly to remain British.
The territorial dispute, which erupted into a brief but bloody conflict in 1982 resulting in the loss of hundreds of lives on both sides, remains a contentious issue.
Despite broad cross-party support for Argentina’s claim, Milei used his speech to criticise previous administrations for their perceived inaction, accusing them of paying lip service to the issue while neglecting the concerns of the Armed Forces.
In a statement bound to provoke reactions in London, Milei pledged to craft “a clear roadmap for the Malvinas to return to Argentine hands,” emphasising that economic prosperity is essential for asserting sovereignty.
Insisting that his government’s reforms will bolster Argentina’s standing on the international stage, Milei added: “We will give rise to a strong and prosperous nation with real power to claim its sovereignty and be respected by other nations.”
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