Milei Threatens Sanctions Over Falkland Islands Oil Drilling
Argentina's President Javier Milei has threatened to impose sanctions on oil companies drilling near the Falkland Islands, which he claims are 'historically and legally' Argentine. This move comes after US President Donald Trump hinted that the US might review its neutrality on the issue, potentially not backing the UK in the Falklands dispute due to the lack of UK support for the US war in Iran.
The UK and Argentina fought a brief war in 1982 over the Falklands, also known as Las Malvinas. Britain has controlled the islands since 1833, while Argentina has long claimed they are part of its territory. Now, Milei is reviving Argentina's claim by targeting oil companies operating in the area.
The Sea Lion oil discovery, operated by Navitas Petroleum Development and Production Ltd (NPDP), a UK-based company, is located about 220 kilometers north of the Falkland Islands. The project has reached a Final Investment Decision (FID) and plans for development have been approved. First oil is expected to flow in March 2028, with production lasting over 30 years.