Argentina moves to charge Falklands oil firm Navitas over drilling claim

Argentina says it will file criminal charges against Navitas Petroleum and its affiliates for operating in waters off the Falklands, arguing the activity violates Argentine sovereignty and its laws banning resource exploitation without approval. President Milei has threatened sanctions on Falklands drilling as part of a renewed bid to assert Argentina's claim, while Sea Lion—Navitas’ North Falkland Basin project with a 1.7-billion-barrel estimate and a 65% Navitas stake—aims to start production in 2028. The UK dismissed Milei’s stance and has reiterated unwavering support for the Falklands; Navitas and Rockhopper say licences from the Falkland Islands remain valid, and have not indicated that Milei’s statements will derail development.