rki.news
The United Kingdom has reaffirmed its “resolute and unchanged” position on the Falkland Islands after a leaked Pentagon internal email suggested the United States should reassess support for Britain’s sovereignty claim over the territory.
A spokesperson for UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said the government’s position remains longstanding and firm, stressing that sovereignty rests with the United Kingdom and the principle of self-determination for islanders is paramount.
The remarks followed reports of a Pentagon memo, cited by Reuters, suggesting a review of US policy on supporting European claims to “longstanding imperial possessions,” including the Falkland Islands dispute, which remains contested by Argentina.
The memo also emerged amid reported US concerns over allied support during recent military operations in the Middle East, including the 38-day bombing campaign against Iran. It further suggested broader reassessments of NATO cooperation.
Pentagon press secretary Kingsley Wilson said the Department of Defense is focused on ensuring US allies contribute to collective security, while declining to comment on internal deliberations.
Downing Street emphasized that UK-US defence relations remain “extremely strong,” describing the partnership as one of the closest security relationships globally. Officials noted Falkland Islanders had “overwhelmingly voted” to remain a UK overseas territory.
The Falklands, in the South Atlantic, were the site of a 1982 war between Britain and Argentina lasting 74 days before British forces regained control.
While tensions remain politically sensitive, London and Washington continue to stress long-standing defence cooperation and strategic stability within NATO frameworks.