The Spanish Government has ratcheted the diplomatic tensions with Argentina by converting its call for consultations of the ambassador into a definitive withdrawal. This indicates that the current ambassador, María Jesús Alonso Jiménez, will not return to Buenos Aires despite potential resolutions of the crisis unless reappointed by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. A new ambassador would therefore need to be appointed by the Council of Ministers, followed by seeking approval from Argentine authorities.
The escalation follows inflammatory remarks made by Argentine President Javier Milei about Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his government. Milei, upon returning to his country, appeared on Todo Noticias and disparaged Sánchez and accused him of cowardice and alignment with Kirchnerism, the Peronist opposition.
Minister of Foreign Affairs José Manuel Albares affirmed that Spain's response comes after Milei's televised interview, which followed Albares' request to the Argentine ambassador in Madrid for a public apology from Milei. Instead, the Argentine president retaliated with more derogatory comments, further exacerbating the diplomatic spat.
This unprecedented diplomatic step marks Spain's third measure within 48 hours: initially calling for consultations of its ambassador, summoning the Argentine ambassador in Madrid, and finally, the definitive withdrawal of the Spanish ambassador. Despite these tensions, a complete severance of diplomatic relations is not on the table as both nations share substantial economic ties—the Spanish colony in Argentina is the largest globally, and Spain stands as Argentina's second foreign investor.
Historical parallels were drawn as Spain has engaged in similar diplomatic maneuvers before, including recalling ambassadors from Venezuela, Nicaragua, and Syria due to bilateral or internal conflicts in those countries.
Argentina's President Milei has remained unapologetic, intensifying verbal attacks in the media. His contentious remarks in Madrid, where he insulted Spanish institutions, deepened the diplomatic discord. Economic concerns loom as Spain's significant investments in Argentina could be at risk, affecting major Spanish corporations like BBVA, Santander, and Telefonica.
Potential escalation remains, as Albares suggested further diplomatic measures might be considered depending on how the crisis unfolds. The situation remains critical, with potential ramifications for the Treaty of Cooperation and Friendship between Spain and Argentina, which might be suspended.
Both leaders are slated to meet at upcoming international summits, adding another layer of complexity to this evolving crisis. Spain maintains its stance of desiring amicable relations but underscores the gravity of Milei’s conduct, labelling it a ‘unique case’ of diplomatic breakdown.
- Spain's history of recalling ambassadors highlights the significance of this incident. Instances include calling ambassadors from Nicaragua, Venezuela, Syria, Honduras, Morocco, and Iran for consultations due to various crises.
- In 1980, Spain even broke diplomatic relations with Guatemala following an attack on its embassy. Such measures are rare and indicate severe discontent.
- Employers and large Spanish corporations express concerns over the potential impact on trade relations with Argentina, emphasizing the interconnectedness of their economic interests.
- The ongoing tensions are notably influenced by earlier remarks from Spanish officials, including accusations against Milei by Spanish ministers, adding to the frosty relations.
- Further moves by the Spanish government could range from diplomatic demotions to suspending bilateral treaties, reflecting the depth of the diplomatic discord.
