Argentina plans new legal action against Falklands oil companies
Javier Milei’s government says it will file complaints against unnamed firms and introduce tougher sanctions, while Britain rejects Argentine jurisdiction over the islands.
Argentina will file new legal complaints against companies exploring for oil near the Falkland Islands, as President Javier Milei’s government escalates pressure on businesses operating in the British-administered territory.
Government spokesperson Adrian Ravier said the companies had not been identified. Legislation to toughen sanctions against businesses operating in the islands is expected to be introduced this week.
The move follows earlier Argentine legal action against Navitas Petroleum and Eco Atlantic over exploration licences linked to the Sea Lion project in the North Falkland basin. Navitas and Rockhopper Exploration have said the project has valid licences from the Falkland Islands government and indicated they do not expect Argentina’s actions to halt development.
Britain published guidance reaffirming its support for legitimate economic activity in the islands, including the development of natural resources. It said Argentina had no right to apply its domestic law in the Falkland Islands or to companies and individuals involved in business connected with them.
The sovereignty dispute, which Argentina refers to as the question of Las Malvinas, has remained unresolved since Britain defeated Argentina in the 1982 war. The effect of the proposed legislation and new complaints on oil development remains unclear.
