The day after President Trump announced a new set of tariffs, he was scheduled to travel to Florida, where he may meet with Argentine President Javier Milei, whom he has referred to as his “favorite president.”
President Milei arrived in the U.S. to receive an award at a right-wing gala at Mar-a-Lago, where Mr. Trump was also expected to be present. Milei expressed hope that the two leaders would meet during the event.
This marks Milei’s tenth visit to the United States in 15 months as president, with many of his trips including meetings with Trump and Elon Musk. Trump has positioned U.S. foreign policy as focused on national interests, raising questions about the significance of Argentina as an ally despite its ongoing economic struggles.
Argentina is not a major economic or geopolitical partner for the U.S. However, through Milei, Trump has found a leader who openly admires him. Trump has commented on Milei's support, stating, “I love him because he loves Trump.”
Milei has consistently praised Trump, sharing edited images of their interactions and demonstrating his alignment with Trump’s policies. For instance, after Trump withdrew the U.S. from the World Health Organization, Milei followed suit. He has also considered exiting the Paris Climate Agreement and dismissed a foreign minister for opposing the U.S. embargo on Cuba.
Additionally, Argentina abstained from condemning Russia’s invasion of Ukraine at the UN, aligning with Trump’s criticisms of the country. Milei has taken a vocal stance against progressive ideologies, positioning himself in the culture wars and promoting Trump as a defender of Western values.
Trump has acknowledged Milei’s efforts to stabilize Argentina’s economy, noting improvements in inflation, growth, and budget balancing. However, Argentina's geographical isolation and persistent economic crises complicate its role as a strategic partner for the U.S.
Trade between the U.S. and Argentina has decreased, with Argentina ranking low in purchasing American exports. Despite facing a 10 percent tariff, Milei remained optimistic, suggesting that Argentina has advantages over other nations affected by higher tariffs.
Argentina possesses significant reserves of strategic minerals, particularly lithium, which is essential for renewable energy technologies. As American and Chinese companies invest in Argentina’s lithium industry, U.S. diplomats have encouraged Milei’s administration to limit Chinese influence, although trade with China has grown under Milei.
Argentina is currently seeking a $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund, with U.S. support being crucial given its status as the fund's largest stakeholder. Argentine officials anticipate backing from Trump in this endeavor.