In his first major interview since arriving in Buenos Aires, U.S. Ambassador Peter Lamelas endorsed President Javier Milei’s economic reforms, calling Argentina’s pro-market turn part of a broader Latin American “awakening” away from left-wing policies. Lamelas, a Cuban-born physician and businessman, also stressed U.S. support for trade, investment, and defense cooperation, including Argentina’s purchase of F-16s and Stryker vehicles.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
BUENOS AIRES — U.S. Ambassador to Argentina Peter Lamelas used his first extensive interview since taking office to declare strong U.S. backing for President Javier Milei’s reforms, framing Argentina’s shift toward free-market policies as part of a wider regional rejection of leftist governance.
“This is more than a personal relationship,” Lamelas told Infobae, referring to the bond between Milei and President Donald Trump. “We share the same Western values. We believe in democracy and freedom.”
A Regional “Awakening”
Lamelas, a 67-year-old Cuban-born physician and businessman, described Milei’s election victory as proof that “the Argentine people have awakened” after years under left-wing governments. He extended the argument across Latin America, citing recent conservative wins in Chile and Bolivia as evidence of a growing backlash against statist economic models.
“The people are waking up after so many years under leftist governments,” Lamelas said. “They now see pro-market capitalism as the only sustainable path to development.”
Economic and Defense Ties
The ambassador emphasized U.S. financial support for Argentina, including Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent’s role in stabilizing the economy. “The United States supports Argentina and will do everything necessary for Argentina to move forward and develop economically,” he said.
Lamelas also highlighted defense cooperation, noting Argentina’s purchase of F-16 fighter jets, Stryker armored vehicles, and P-3 Orion patrol aircraft—the latter critical for countering illegal Chinese fishing in Argentine waters.
A Warning on China
Lamelas drew a sharp contrast between U.S. market-based trade and China’s state-controlled economy, warning of unfair competition and dumping. He criticized China’s opaque business practices, while praising Milei’s reforms as a model for the region.
A Call for Unity
While supporting Milei’s agenda, Lamelas stressed the need for political pragmatism, urging cooperation with provincial leaders and opposition figures. “The government has to collaborate with everyone, including governors and people who disagree with them,” he said, acknowledging Argentina’s federal system.
A Broader Vision for Latin America
Lamelas placed Milei’s rise within a continental realignment, crediting Trump’s leadership and Milei’s reforms for inspiring similar shifts in Chile, Bolivia, and beyond. He criticized authoritarian regimes like Venezuela’s and expressed hope for a free Cuba, his birthplace.
“I have a hope in my heart that one day we will have a free Cuba,” he said.
What’s Next?
Lamelas plans to travel across Argentina, promoting U.S. investment beyond Buenos Aires. His focus on provincial engagement reflects a strategy to deepen economic ties and counter Chinese influence.
“The governors matter, they’re key, and we have to negotiate with them,” he said. “Attracting American industry to the provinces will be central to my mission.”
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