Russia has welcomed Argentina’s decision to abstain from condemning its invasion of Ukraine at the United Nations (UN), marking a significant diplomatic shift. The Kremlin, through its ambassador in Buenos Aires, praised President Javier Milei for not supporting what it called a “compromised anti-Russian project.”

Putin’s Envoy Applauds Argentina’s Shift

Dmitry Feoktistov, Russia’s ambassador to Argentina, stated on Telegram that Buenos Aires broke from previous years’ positions by refusing to endorse resolutions pushed by Ukraine and the European Union (EU). He argued that the recent UN debates “demonstrated a growing demand for peace” and claimed that many Global South countries are shifting toward seeking an end to the conflict.

Feoktistov, who was instrumental in Russia’s Sputnik vaccine deal with Argentina, went a step further, calling for a reset in relations between Moscow and Buenos Aires. He expressed hope that Argentina would maintain a balanced and constructive stance in multilateral forums, allowing for the revival of economic and infrastructure projects stalled in recent years.

French Ambassador Criticizes Argentina’s Stance

However, Argentina’s abstention was met with concern from the EU and Ukraine. French ambassador Romain Nadal expressed surprise, emphasizing that Russia had violated Ukraine’s territorial integrity multiple times. He warned that a peace agreement leading to Ukraine’s surrender would be catastrophic, even for Argentina.

“There is an aggressor, Russia, and a victim, Ukraine. In international relations, there is no such thing as ‘happy submission,’” Nadal stated.

Backlash from Pro and Argentina’s Foreign Policy Concerns

Milei’s shift has also sparked criticism within Argentina’s own political landscape, particularly from Pro, the party of former President Mauricio Macri. A report by Fundación Pensar, the party’s foreign policy think tank, warned that aligning too closely with Trump’s stance on Ukraine could harm Argentina’s international standing.

“Most rising nations seek to maximize their strategic autonomy. Argentina, however, appears to be delegating its foreign policy decisions to third parties,” the report stated.

Critics also highlighted the risks of Argentina distancing itself from international consensus, particularly if it follows Trump’s confrontational approach to global institutions like the UN. Elon Musk, a close Trump ally, has even proposed withdrawing from the UN entirely, a move that Macri’s allies believe would be reckless for Argentina.

Diplomatic Crossroads

With Russia applauding Milei’s shift, France voicing concerns, and Argentina’s own political factions divided, the country now faces a complex diplomatic balancing act as it navigates its place in global geopolitics