President Javier Milei removed Foreign Minister Diana Mondino after Argentina’s vote at the UN condemning the U.S. embargo on Cuba, appointing Gerardo Werthein as her successor. The dismissal reflects a shift in Argentina’s foreign policy, marking a departure from its previous alignment with U.S. positions and demonstrating solidarity with Cuba and other Latin American nations.
Argentina’s President Javier Milei has terminated the position of Foreign Minister Diana Mondino following the country’s vote at the United Nations to condemn the United States’ longstanding embargo on Cuba. Gerardo Werthein has been appointed as her successor, currently serving as Argentina’s Ambassador to the United States. In an official statement, the presidency declared that Argentina opposes the Cuban dictatorship and is committed to advocating against regimes that violate human rights. The immediate dismissal of Mondino followed weeks of speculation regarding her effectiveness, especially as she had not accompanied President Milei on recent foreign trips. This decision came after the UN General Assembly overwhelmingly supported a resolution calling for an end to the six-decade-old U.S. blockade of Cuba, a stance that surprised many who anticipated a more traditional alignment with U.S. policies. Notably, this marked the first instance since taking office where the Milei administration did not align with the United States and Israel, a departure that highlights shifts in Argentina’s foreign policy within the broader Latin American context. The approval of the resolution by 187 countries, with only the United States and Israel opposing it, has been viewed as a moral victory for Cuba, despite its limited practical implications.
This incident illustrates the evolving nature of diplomatic relationships within Latin America, particularly regarding the U.S. embargo on Cuba. Since the establishment of the embargo over sixty years ago, Argentina has maintained a position that often aligned with U.S. policies. However, the recent shift under President Milei’s administration indicates a potential re-evaluation of Argentina’s foreign engagements, particularly as countries in Latin America unite in support of Cuba against the trade embargo. Furthermore, the diplomatic maneuverings surrounding Argentina’s stance on this issue may have implications for its own claims regarding the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands, given the necessity of support from nations aligned with Cuba and its allies.
In summary, the dismissal of Diana Mondino as Foreign Minister by President Javier Milei underscores a significant shift in Argentina’s foreign policy, marking a departure from its historical alignment with the United States and Israel. The recent vote at the UN against the embargo on Cuba and the subsequent reorganization of the nation’s diplomatic leadership highlight the Milei administration’s intentions to adopt a more independent and principled stance on international human rights issues. The full repercussions of these changes on Argentina’s international relations, particularly within the context of its claims over the Malvinas Islands, remain to be seen.
Original Source: www.batimes.com.ar
