Donald Trump has indicated he would not commit to supporting Britain in the event of a renewed invasion of the Falkland Islands, suggesting the United Kingdom's recent actions, particularly its stance on the military campaign against Iran, would influence his decision.
Trump's comments came as Argentine President Javier Milei, an ally of the former U.S. president, prepared to deliver a televised address on the Falklands, which Argentina refers to as the Malvinas.
The U.S. has historically maintained a neutral position on the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands. However, Trump has previously hinted that this stance could be under review, a move interpreted by some as a tactic to pressure the UK for greater military cooperation.
When asked in an interview whether he would "come to the aid" of the UK if another invasion occurred, Trump referenced the 1982 Falklands War. "I was there when they had the first war, that was a long time ago... you comported yourself very well, took it back very shortly. But it is a long way away," he stated.
He then linked the potential support to the UK's role during a U.S.-led offensive against Iran. "So, your country's not doing well. Don't forget you get a big percentage of your oil from the Strait of Hormuz and you weren't there to help me. Your country was not there to help me."
During the premiership of Keir Starmer, the UK initially declined to participate in the U.S.-Israeli offensive against Iran. While British forces were later authorized to support "defensive" strikes, the UK did not agree to Trump's request to deploy the navy to reopen the Strait of Hormuz, a critical waterway for global oil and gas supplies that Iran had blockaded in response to the attacks.
The UK government has consistently asserted that the sovereignty of the Falkland Islands is not in question. A 2013 referendum on the islands saw 99.8% of residents vote to remain British, with a 92% turnout.
Argentine forces attempted to seize control of the islands in 1982, leading to a conflict that resulted in the deaths of 649 Argentines, 255 Britons, and three islanders.
