Argentine Government Rebukes Spanish Minister's Accusation Against Milei

The Argentine government has strongly repudiated the "slander and insults" made by Spanish Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility, Óscar Puente, against President Javier Milei. Puente had accused Milei of "ingesting substances" during a meeting of the Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE).

Why this matters: This diplomatic spat between Argentina and Spain has significant implications for therelationship between the two countries and could affect regional cooperation. The controversy also highlights the challenges of navigating international relations in the face of personal attacks and political tensions.

In a statement released on Friday, the Office of the Argentine President rejected Puente's comments, stating: "The Office of the President repudiates the slander and insults formulated by the Minister of Transport and Sustainable Mobility of Spain, Óscar Puente, against Javier Milei." The statement further suggested that the government of Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has more pressing issues to address, such as corruption allegations against Sánchez's wife, Begoña Gómez.

The controversy erupted after Puente made the accusation against Milei during a PSOE meeting at the III School of Government. Puente said, "There are very bad people who, being themselves, have reached the top... I have seen Milei on TV, and as I was hearing him, do you remember? The thing about... When he came out, I don't know in what state and prior to ingesting or after ingesting what substances, but he came out to say that, what he said, a few days before... I said: 'It is impossible for him to win the elections.'"

The Argentine government's statement not only rejected Puente's comments but also criticized Sánchez's leadership, accusing him of endangering Spain's unity, putting women at risk, and harming the middle class with socialist policies. The statement expressed hope that justice would swiftly address the corruption scandal directly affecting the stability of Spain and its relations with Argentina.

The diplomatic spat between Argentina and Spain comes as Milei, a libertarian economist, assumes the Argentine presidency, marking a significant shift in the country's political landscape. Milei's unconventional style and controversial statements have drawn both fervent support and sharp criticism. The Argentine government's forceful response to Puente's accusation underscores the administration's commitment to defending Milei and rejecting what it perceives as unwarranted attacks from foreign officials.

Key Takeaways

• Argentina's government rejects Spanish Minister Óscar Puente's "slander and insults" against President Javier Milei.
• Puente accused Milei of "ingesting substances" during a meeting, sparking diplomatic tensions.
• The controversy may affect regional cooperation and highlights challenges in navigating international relations.
• Argentina's government criticizes Spanish PM Pedro Sánchez's leadership and corruption allegations.
• The diplomatic spat occurs as Milei, a libertarian economist, assumes the Argentine presidency.