NEW YORK – Former U.S. President Donald Trump signaled a potential shift in U.S. foreign policy toward Latin America, warning that continued financial assistance to Argentina could be contingent on teh outcome of its upcoming presidential elections. Trump cautioned that if a socialist candidate were to win, “we will not be so generous,” during a bilateral meeting with Argentine President Javier Milei on the sidelines of the 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly.
The remarks underscore Trump’s ”America First” approach and his administration’s consistent skepticism toward socialist governments in the region. This stance carries significant implications for Argentina, which is currently seeking to bolster its economy through international partnerships, including a currency swap agreement with China. U.S. officials, including Trump, have expressed a preference for allied nations limiting close ties with Beijing.
“US assistance is not based on closing the swap with China,” stated a U.S. official, while Trump himself advised Milei to “stay firm in your principles, because you are right and you are proving it,” surrounded by advisors like Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth.
Milei, a self-described libertarian, publicly praised Trump’s leadership, stating, “Thanks to your great leadership, President Trump, you have achieved peace in the Middle east.” He also commended Trump’s understanding of “the threat that 21st century socialism is throughout the world, especially in Latin America.”
