President Javier Milei of Argentina dismissed Foreign Minister Diana Mondino following the nation’s support of a UN resolution to lift the U.S. embargo on Cuba. This decision marks Argentina’s divergence from U.S. and Israeli opposition, with only these two nations voting against the resolution. Gerardo Werthein will replace Mondino as foreign minister, amidst concerns about future diplomatic relations involving Cuba and Argentina’s claims over the Falkland Islands.
On Wednesday, President Javier Milei of Argentina announced the dismissal of Foreign Minister Diana Mondino following Argentina’s decision to support a United Nations resolution advocating for the lifting of the longstanding United States embargo on Cuba. This action represents the first notable divergence from U.S. and Israeli stances during Milei’s administration, as only these two nations opposed the resolution among 186 UN members who voted in favor. The presidential spokesman, Manuel Adorni, revealed that Mr. Gerardo Werthein will succeed Mondino as the new foreign minister. Werthein previously held the position of Argentina’s ambassador to the United States. The resolution that led to this political upheaval was not only significant for its stance on Cuba but also indicates a potential shift in Argentina’s diplomatic relations. Critically, only the U.S. and Israel voted against the resolution, while Moldova abstained from the vote entirely. The quick aftermath of Mondino’s dismissal saw President Milei retweeting a statement from a lawmaker expressing pride in a government that does not support authoritarian regimes, emphasizing, “Viva CubaLibre.” Historically, Argentina has aligned with Cuba against the U.S. embargo, but this recent event has created a diplomatic rift. Reports from local media indicate concerns regarding future votes where support from Cuba and its alliances may be essential, particularly concerning Argentina’s claims over the Falkland Islands, a British territory.
The U.S. embargo on Cuba has been in place since 1962, aimed at isolating the communist regime there. Throughout the years, many countries have voted at the United Nations in favor of resolutions calling for the end of the embargo, highlighting the international community’s general disapproval of U.S. policy towards Cuba. Argentina has traditionally voted against the embargo, thus aligning itself with Latin America’s broader regional solidarity with Cuba. However, President Milei’s recent decision to dismiss his foreign minister after backing a resolution supporting Cuba signifies a challenging shift in Argentina’s foreign relations. This move highlights the complexities of balancing diplomatic ties with powerful allies, such as the U.S. and Israel, and regional responsibilities and aspirations.
In summary, the dismissal of Argentina’s Foreign Minister Diana Mondino by President Javier Milei illustrates a significant moment in the nation’s diplomatic stance regarding Cuba. By supporting a UN resolution to lift the U.S. embargo on Cuba, Argentina has differentiated itself from U.S. policy, which could influence future international relations, particularly concerning Argentina’s sovereignty claims over the Falkland Islands. This development presents both potential diplomatic challenges and evolving regional dynamics.
Original Source: www.france24.com
