Donald Trump has indicated that he might not support the UK in a potential conflict with Argentina over the Falkland Islands. In an interview with GB News, Trump stated that Britain had not provided support during the US conflict with Iran, despite later mentioning that the US military did not require assistance. Trump's comments follow his previous suggestion that the US could reconsider its neutral stance on the islands' sovereignty if the UK does not increase its defense spending.
Argentinian President Javier Milei is expected to make a televised statement regarding Argentina's claim to the islands. The Falklands, located in the south-west Atlantic Ocean, have been a point of contention between Britain and Argentina for over 40 years since a military conflict in 1982.
When asked about aiding the UK in a territorial dispute, Trump referenced the previous war, saying, "I was there when they had the first war... you comported yourselves very well." He also noted the importance of oil from the Strait of Hormuz and expressed disappointment that the UK did not assist the US during the Iran conflict.
Trump mentioned that he had asked NATO and the then-prime minister, Sir Keir Starmer, why no British ships were sent to help, to which he received a negative response.
The 1982 conflict resulted in the deaths of 255 British military personnel, three islanders, and 649 Argentine military personnel. While previous US administrations have recognized the UK's administration of the islands, they have not taken a formal stance on sovereignty.
In response to a question about reviewing the US position on the islands, Trump stated, "I always review every position. That's just one of many." The UK government reiterated that the Falkland Islanders have the right to determine their own future, with a 2013 referendum showing 99.8% of residents voting to remain a British overseas territory.