When Ideology Writes the Check: Washington’s Risky Bet on Argentina

A hypothetical future U.S. administration under Donald Trump pledges a $20 billion loan to Argentina, led by President Javier Milei, to prevent a currency collapse. The bailout is presented as being driven by ideological affinity between the two leaders rather than sound economic logic, drawing criticism from both U.S. political parties. While the loan's effectiveness is questionable, a stronger foreign policy justification for supporting Argentina exists. Milei has firmly aligned his country with the United States and against China, making Argentina a valuable partner in a region where U.S. influence is contested.