BUENOS AIRES, Argentina: Argentina Falklands sanctions could target 45 entities linked to oil exploration around the disputed islands after the government opened proceedings to investigate unauthorised activity.
Argentina’s presidency announced the action on Friday, saying authorities would investigate and potentially penalise entities involved in hydrocarbon exploration and exploitation around the Falkland Islands, known in Argentina as Las Malvinas.
The government did not identify the companies. Argentine media reported that entities from Britain, the United States, Canada, Israel, Denmark and the Netherlands were among those involved.
Oilfield services companies Schlumberger, Halliburton and Baker Hughes said Saturday that they do not and will not participate in hydrocarbon projects near the islands. President Javier Milei later shared reports of the statements on X.
Milei renewed Argentina’s sovereignty claim Thursday and announced tougher sanctions against companies involved in nearby oil projects.
Read: Argentina Indigenous Eviction Injures 10, Razes 3 Homes
He said changing international circumstances were becoming more favourable to Argentina’s position. The Falkland Islands lie about 600 kilometres east of Argentina’s southern coast and remain under British administration.
Argentina and Britain fought a 74-day war over the territory in 1982, killing 649 Argentine and 255 British military personnel.
British Defence Secretary Wes Streeting responded by reaffirming Britain’s commitment to the islands and said their residents had chosen to remain British.
The latest dispute also follows comments from US President Donald Trump that Washington was reviewing its position on the Falklands.
