Milei Announces Naval Base and Sanctions Package for Oil Companies over Malvinas Islands

Argentine President Javier Milei announced he will submit a legislative package to Congress aimed at strengthening Argentina's sovereignty claim over the Malvinas Islands (Falkland Islands). The package provides for the construction of a naval base in Tierra del Fuego and the toughening of sanctions against foreign companies involved in oil activities on the islands. Milei emphasized that "Malvinas are Argentine by history and law," stressing that the defense of sovereignty is a state policy beyond any government.

The President noted that the United Nations has urged parties to refrain from unilateral actions for 50 years, yet the Sea Lion oil project unilaterally exploits Argentine resources. The project, developed by a joint venture of Navitas Petroleum (65%) and Rockhopper Exploration (35%), made a final investment decision in December 2025. The Argentine Foreign Ministry rejected this move as a unilateral exploitation in an area subject to a sovereignty dispute.

The new bill aims to amend Law 26,659 to extend penal and administrative sanctions to companies servicing oil activities. It also provides for the establishment of a National Security Council, a critical infrastructure protection regime, and aviation/maritime security frameworks. Milei stated these measures will deepen the strategy to protect Argentina's territorial integrity.