MercoPress · October 1, 2026

Milei's lawmakers object to Uruguay's purchase of patrol boats from the United Kingdom

The MercoPress website reported that Uruguay’s potential purchase of British patrol vessels sparked a reaction from Argentina’s ruling party: Congressman Damián Arabia and 19 other legislators from La Libertad Avanza introduced a non-binding resolution expressing bewilderment over the deal and appealing to Uruguay’s historical support for Argentina’s claim to the Malvinas Islands. The Argentine government did not file a formal protest.

According to the publication, London offered the government of Yamandú Orsi three River-class vessels, of which Montevideo is considering acquiring up to two, with a possible transfer in 2028; the search began after the contract with the Spanish shipyard Cardama was canceled. Uruguayan Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin distinguished between the discussion of colonial occupation and current oil exploitation. The episode coincides with the arbitration that Argentina announced against the United Kingdom over the Sea Lion project.

Via MercoPress