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Javier Milei plans to sanction oil companies for drilling in the Falkland Islands as the US reviews its sovereignty position

Argentina's President Javier Milei has announced plans to sanction oil companies operating in the Falkland Islands, escalating a long-standing sovereignty dispute with Britain. The administration announced that it will file criminal charges against the Israeli energy company Navitas Petroleum and its partners for hydrocarbon exploration in the North Falkland Basin. Milei described the Sea Lion offshore oil project as a "clear and present danger" to Argentina's claims, warning that the companies are exploiting resources without Argentinian permission. This move follows remarks by Donald Trump, who suggested that the United States is reviewing its long-held position of recognizing British administration over the territory. Trump said the US position is "under review" and noted that Britain did not provide sufficient support during the US-led bombing campaign against Iran. Milei praised the administration's potential shift in allegiance as a sign of his close relationship with the United States. While Britain's foreign minister condemned the move, stating the islands will remain British as long as the residents choose, Milei argued that the population does not have a legitimate right to self-determination. Navitas Petroleum and Rockhopper Exploration stated they will continue their operations under licenses granted by the British government.

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