The United States reiterated its neutrality Friday over the contested sovereignty of the Malvinas (Falkland) Islands between Argentina and the United Kingdom, according to a US State Department spokesperson.
“Our position on The Islands remains one of neutrality. We acknowledge that there are conflicting claims of sovereignty between Argentina and the UK,” the spokesperson said, adding that the US recognises “de facto United Kingdom administration” of the archipelago without taking sides on sovereignty claims.
In a post on X earlier on Friday, British Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper declared that “the Falklands Islands are British.”
“Sovereignty rests with the UK, self-determination rests with the islanders,” said the MP, adding that Downing Street’s “commitment to the Falklands is unwavering.”
In comments reported by the BBC, a spokesperson for Downing Street said that the islanders have “previously voted overwhelmingly in favour of remaining a UK overseas territory.”
“We’ve always stood behind the islanders’ right to self-determination and the fact that sovereignty rests with the UK,” they added.
The prime minister’s official spokesman said the government “could not be clearer about the UK’s position” and that “sovereignty rests with the UK and the islanders’ right to self-determination is paramount.”
In an appearance with a streaming channel, President Javier Milei said his government is doing everything “humanly” possible to ensure the islands return to Argentine hands.
“We are doing everything humanly possible to ensure that the Malvinas Islands return to Argentina’s control. Sovereignty is not negotiable, but we must approach this judiciously; we must use our heads,” he said.
– TIMES/AFP/NA
