Last night (Saturday), Argentina’s President Javier Milei, known for his alignment with global economic conservatism, met with President Donald Trump on the sidelines of the CPAC conference. The two discussed economic issues, with an emphasis on Trump’s reciprocal tariff plan under which the United States would impose identical tariffs on imported products as other countries impose on American goods.
Milei praised the new policy, declaring that he wants to make Argentina the “first country in the world” to join the agreement.
25% Tariffs on Steel and Aluminum
Trump recently announced a 25% tariff increase on steel and aluminum, which could directly impact the Argentine economy as one of the main exporters of these products to the United States.
Despite this, Milei chose to support Trump’s economic approach, believing that this policy will serve free markets and assist countries cooperating with Washington.
Support for Argentina’s Negotiations with the IMF
One of the key topics raised in the meeting was U.S. support for Argentina’s negotiations with the International Monetary Fund (IMF).
Milei is grappling with a severe economic crisis in his country and met earlier this week with IMF chief Kristalina Georgieva, seemingly hoping for American backing to forge new agreements for Argentina’s economic recovery.
Milei: “This Is Our Second Independence”
In a speech following the meeting, Milei stated that the United States and Argentina must achieve a “second independence”, stating: “The first was from European colonial rule, and the current independence is from ‘the tyranny of the state.’”
Milei criticized what he terms as the “political class with a god complex” and emphasized that the approach he and Trump are leading poses a threat to the existing political establishment, but not to democracy itself.
“The Left’s Worst Nightmare” and Cooperation with Elon Musk
Milei reiterated his support for Trump’s narrative, claiming that he is “the worst nightmare” of his political opponents. He also praised Elon Musk, whom he called a “dear friend”, and gifted him a chainsaw – a famous symbol of Milei’s own fight to cut government spending.
Musk brought the chainsaw on stage before an interview during the CPAC conference, sparking applause and widespread reactions.
What Are Potential Implications for Israel?
The tightening relationship between Milei and Trump could positively impact Israel. Milei has previously visited the country, expressed strong support for Israel, and even promised to move Argentina’s embassy to Jerusalem.
During his previous presidency, Trump made significant pro-Israel moves himself, such as the recognition of the Golan Heights and the relocation of the U.S. embassy to Jerusalem. With this in mind, Trump may find Milei a reliable partner for deepening alliances with Israel.
For now, the positive cooperation between the United States and Argentina under the leadership of Trump and Milei seems poised to intensify, focusing on major economic changes, free trade, and opposition to centralized governance.
