Trump Signals Limited Support for Argentina if Milei Fails

Former President Donald Trump indicated that the United States would not offer substantial support to Argentina if current President Javier Milei loses the upcoming election. Trump made these remarks during a meeting at the White House, where he welcomed Milei, who recently secured a $20 billion currency swap to address the nation’s financial challenges.

The discussion took place as Argentina prepares for midterm elections for its legislative body later this month. Trump expressed confidence in Milei’s electoral prospects, stating, “I think they’ll be better after this,” referring to the newly established currency swap. He noted that the U.S. approval of further assistance hinges on the election’s outcome, emphasizing that if Milei does not win, the U.S. would be less inclined to support Argentina.

Trump’s comments suggested that his administration views the potential election of Milei’s opponent—whom he characterized as “extremely far left”—as detrimental to Argentina’s economic recovery. “If the president doesn’t win, we are not going to be generous with Argentina,” Trump stated, highlighting a transactional approach to international relations.

The $20 billion deal has been perceived as a bailout for Argentina, which is grappling with significant financial issues. However, it has drawn criticism from some U.S. lawmakers. Senator Elizabeth Warren, a Democrat from Massachusetts, criticized Trump’s support for Argentina while domestic issues persist. “It is inexplicable that President Trump is propping up a foreign government, while he shuts down our own,” she remarked. Warren recently introduced legislation aimed at halting the bailout.

Senator Jeanne Shaheen echoed similar concerns, arguing that focusing on Argentina detracts from addressing pressing issues at home. “President Trump seems to think it’s more important to offer $20 billion to bail out Argentina than it is to make a bipartisan deal to prevent health insurance premiums from spiking for over 20 million Americans,” she said. Shaheen underscored the need for prioritizing domestic welfare over foreign aid.

Critics from the economic sphere also weighed in on the deal. Monica de Bolle, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics, described the assistance as a bailout, stating, “It’s a country in crisis, it’s running out of dollars, and the U.S. is giving the country dollars. That’s a bailout by definition.” Her remarks reflect broader concerns regarding the implications of U.S. financial aid on domestic priorities.

As Argentina approaches a critical moment in its political landscape, the outcome of the elections may significantly influence its relationship with the United States. Trump’s statements reveal a focus on electoral outcomes that could reshape international support and cooperation, particularly concerning economic assistance.