Argentina’s President Javier Milei dismissed Foreign Minister Diana Mondino after the country voted in favor of lifting the six-decade US embargo on Cuba at the UN. This decision marks a significant departure from Argentina’s traditional foreign policy alignments, emphasizing the complexities of international relations for the Milei administration.
On Wednesday, Argentine President Javier Milei dismissed Foreign Minister Diana Mondino following the country’s support for a United Nations resolution to lift the longstanding United States embargo on Cuba. This decision signifies a notable departure from previous Argentine foreign policy, as it marks the first instance under President Milei’s administration where Argentina diverged from the positions held by the United States and Israel, both of whom opposed the resolution. President Milei announced the appointment of Mr. Gerardo Werthein as the new Foreign Minister; Werthein previously served as Argentina’s ambassador to the United States. During the UN vote, Argentina joined 186 other nations in advocating for the lifting of the embargo, which has been in place since 1962. The only countries opposing the resolution were the United States and Israel, while Moldova chose to abstain from the vote. In the wake of Mondino’s dismissal, President Milei retweeted a statement from a legislator expressing pride in a government that refrains from supporting despotic regimes, accompanied by the phrase “Viva CubaLibre.” Historically, Argentina has opposed the embargo on Cuba, though sources within the foreign ministry have acknowledged the diplomatic discomfort of opposing key allies like the United States and Israel. However, they emphasized that support from Cuba and its allies will be crucial for Argentina’s future claims regarding sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, a British territory disputed by Argentina.
The recent action taken by President Javier Milei represents a significant shift in Argentina’s foreign policy, particularly regarding Cuba and its relations with the United States and Israel. The US embargo on Cuba has been a contentious issue for over six decades, with various countries frequently taking stands either in support of or against it. Under previous administrations, Argentina consistently voted against the embargo, aligning itself more closely with Cuba and its allies. The decision to support the UN resolution lifting the embargo reflects a broader geopolitical maneuver by Milei’s administration, indicating a potential re-evaluation of Argentina’s international alliances and priorities. This move has both domestic and international implications, especially in terms of Argentina’s strategic goals concerning the Falkland Islands, which remain under British control despite Argentina’s claims.
In conclusion, President Javier Milei’s dismissal of Foreign Minister Diana Mondino after Argentina’s support for the UN resolution to end the US embargo on Cuba underscores a pivotal shift in the country’s diplomatic posture. This decision illustrates Argentina’s intent to navigate its foreign relations more independently, despite potential ramifications for its alliances with the United States and Israel. As the new administration moves forward, how it balances these emerging relationships while addressing sensitive territorial claims will be critical.
Original Source: www.france24.com
