Argentina’s President Thanks Trump Following Midterm Victory

On Monday, Argentina’s President Javier Milley expressed his gratitude to Donald Trump for the support extended during the recent midterm elections. These elections concluded on Sunday with an unexpected yet significant win for Milley’s political party, Liberty Advances.

Milley, who has been a staunch ally of Trump, visited the White House on October 14 to discuss U.S.-Argentina relations and to negotiate a crucial currency exchange deal aimed at bolstering Argentina’s struggling economy. When Milley took office in December 2023, the country was emerging from two decades of socialist governance, and its economy was teetering on the edge of collapse. His primary focus has been on stabilizing the economy and ensuring access to jobs and essential resources.

During this White House visit, Trump expressed his support for the currency swap deal, citing his belief in Milley’s integrity and capability as a leader. He also conveyed that he would withhold assistance from left-leaning leaders should the Argentine electorate choose them over right-wing candidates.

On Monday, Trump sent his congratulations to Milley after the midterm elections, commending him for a “great job.” In his response, Milley praised Trump, noting his trust in the Argentine populace and labeling him as a “great friend” of Argentina. Milley lamented the lost alliance under previous administrations, which he believes moved Argentina closer to questionable alliances with nations like China and Iran. He emphasized the desire of his people to live freely and reaffirmed his commitment to uphold Western values that have historically reduced global poverty.

Milley also thanked Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent for his support, hailing his electoral victory as a testament to the resilience of the Argentine people in their fight for freedom. He indicated that this victory signals a rejection of the socialist policies that have plagued Argentina.

As for the midterm elections, expectations were initially grim for Liberty Advances, especially following significant losses in the Buenos Aires provincial parliament earlier in September. However, the party remarkably secured a seat in the Argentine House of Representatives amidst drama, as their candidate was removed before the vote over corruption allegations.

Liberty Advances garnered nearly 41 percent of the votes nationwide, resulting in 64 seats in the House. Presently, it stands as the largest party in the Senate with 20 seats, while the left-wing coalition holds 28 seats, fragmented across different parties. This electoral success is notable given its context; during the previous two decades, Argentina faced economic decline under the leadership of figures like Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, who, despite facing criminal charges, continued to influence local politics.

During Milley’s White House visit, Trump reiterated his view of Milley as a key ally to the U.S. He noted the significance of the upcoming election, stressing that support for Argentina hinges on the nation’s political landscape, particularly regarding socialist candidates. Trump also mentioned potential expansions in market access for Argentina’s beef sector, aiming to mitigate the costs of U.S. beef imports and counter left-wing criticisms regarding Argentina’s economic dealings.

Ultimately, Milley pushed back against suggestions that Argentina is faring well, signaling an aware and proactive stance on the various challenges facing his administration.