Argentina’s Foreign Minister Dismissed After Supporting UN Embargo Lift on Cuba

Argentina’s President Javier Milei dismissed Foreign Minister Diana Mondino after the country supported a UN resolution to lift the U.S. embargo on Cuba. This marks a notable divergence from U.S. and Israeli positions, with only these two nations opposing the resolution. President Milei appointed Gerardo Werthein as the new foreign minister.

On Wednesday, President Javier Milei of Argentina dismissed Foreign Minister Diana Mondino following the nation’s support of a UN resolution advocating for the removal of the six-decade-long U.S. embargo on Cuba. This decision marks a significant departure from Argentina’s traditional alignment with U.S. and Israeli policies in international affairs. The new foreign minister, Mr. Gerardo Werthein, formerly served as Argentina’s ambassador to the United States. During the UN vote, Argentina aligned with 186 other nations in favor of lifting the embargo, while only the United States and Israel opposed the resolution. This vote indicated Argentina’s willingness to prioritize diplomatic relations within Latin America over its historical partnerships with the U.S. and Israel. After the announcement of Mondino’s dismissal, President Milei retweeted a lawmaker’s post praising the government for its stance against dictators, which included a message of support for Cuba. Historically, Argentina has opposed the U.S. embargo on Cuba, but the recent vote introduced tensions within its diplomatic relations, especially considering future discussions regarding Argentina’s territorial claims over the Falkland Islands. Sources from the foreign ministry indicated that the support of Cuba and its allies may be essential in those upcoming deliberations.

The U.S. embargo on Cuba has been in place since 1962, primarily as a response to the Cuban government’s nationalization of U.S. assets and its alignment with the Soviet Union during the Cold War. Throughout the years, multiple countries have called for the lifting of the embargo, citing humanitarian concerns and the need for diplomatic engagement. Argentina, traditionally aligned with Latin America’s leftist governments, often voted against the embargo. However, with the election of Javier Milei, whose government has taken a more pro-U.S. stance, this recent UN vote diverged significantly from prior policies, revealing potential shifts in Argentina’s international relations and its diplomatic priorities in Latin America.

The dismissal of Diana Mondino by President Javier Milei following Argentina’s vote to lift the U.S. embargo on Cuba highlights a critical moment in the nation’s foreign policy. This event signifies a shift in diplomatic strategy as Milei seeks to balance Argentina’s traditional alliances with its growing need for support from Latin American nations. The implications of this decision will likely affect Argentina’s future diplomatic engagements, particularly regarding its sovereignty claims over the Falkland Islands.

Original Source: www.france24.com