Milei threatens to sue Britain over Falkland Islands oil exploration

Argentine President Javier Milei has threatened to take Britain to court over an oil exploration project near the Falkland Islands, setting a two-week deadline for the venture to be abandoned before legal proceedings begin.

The dispute centres on the Sea Lion oilfield, where developers Navitas and Rockhopper are operating under exploration licences issued by British authorities. Both companies maintain that their licences are valid and legally sound.

Argentina has long claimed sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, which are administered by Britain. The two countries fought a war over the territory in 1982, a conflict that claimed the lives of 255 British service personnel and 649 Argentine troops.

Milei's ultimatum marks a sharp escalation in tensions over the islands and their surrounding waters, which are believed to hold significant hydrocarbon reserves. Britain has consistently maintained that the Falkland Islanders have the right to determine their own political future.