In a gesture of support for Ukraine, Argentina has donated two Mi-171E multipurpose helicopters to the country, originally acquired from Russia, as reported by the Financial Times on February 29. The decision for the transfer was personally endorsed by Argentinian President Javier Milei.
President Milei, who has expressed a preference for fostering relationships with nations that prioritize freedom, such as the United States, Israel, and Ukraine, has made a significant move by donating these military helicopters, which were initially manufactured in Russia.
The specifics of the agreement between Argentina and Ukraine were not made public.
Originally, Argentina had procured these helicopters for use in transport and search and rescue missions in Antarctica. The decision to cease their operation came after the helicopters failed to meet the required standards during periodic inspections and maintenance checks, a situation further complicated by international sanctions imposed on Russia.
In a broader context of support for Ukraine, President Milei previously announced his intention to organize a "summit of Latin America support" for Ukraine in 2024, showcasing a distinct stance from other Latin American leaders like Brazilian President Lula da Silva and Mexican President Andrés Manuel López Obrador.
The relationship between Argentina and Ukraine was highlighted when Milei engaged in a phone conversation with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on November 22, 2023, during which the Argentinian leader proposed a summit in Latin America to address the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
Further solidifying their diplomatic ties, President Zelenskyy was present at President Milei’s inauguration ceremony in Buenos Aires on December 10, 2023, marking a significant moment of international solidarity.
