Argentina is preparing to reclaim the Falkland Islands from Britain. Argentine President Javier Milei announces tougher sanctions for oil projects in the Falklands

Argentine President Javier Milei announced on Thursday a bill to tighten sanctions against companies involved in unauthorized oil operations around the Falkland Islands, claimed by Buenos Aires and de facto administered by the United Kingdom. Milei believes there is a “favorable wind” for reviving Argentina’s historic claim.

The announcement comes after U.S. President Donald Trump said he did not rule out a review of the United States’ position of neutrality toward the archipelago. The U.S. recognizes British administration of the islands but does not take a position on sovereignty, while the UN recognizes the existence of the dispute and calls for a peaceful solution.

The conflict between Argentina and the United Kingdom over the Falklands, called the Malvinas by Argentines, took place in 1982 and resulted in 649 deaths among the Argentines and 255 among the British. The islands remain a major national symbol for Argentina.