Tensions over the Falkland Islands have escalated during the UN summit, with senior Conservative MP Tom Tugendhat accusing China of enabling Argentina's renewed sovereignty claims by providing financial support to President Javier Milei. The diplomatic row has intensified after President Trump indicated the US was reviewing its position on the islands' sovereignty, prompting Milei to describe the "Malvinas cause" as sacred and to impose sanctions on oil exploration activities in the region. Prime Minister Burnham has reaffirmed Britain's commitment to defending the islands and the Falkland Islanders' right to self-determination, raising the matter directly with Trump during their first meeting this week.

Tugendhat highlighted that China maintains an $18 billion credit arrangement with Argentina that underwrites a substantial portion of its foreign reserves, suggesting this financial leverage influences Buenos Aires' assertiveness on territorial claims. The South Atlantic territory was recaptured by British forces in 1982 following Argentina's invasion. Both Burnham and Milei addressed the UN General Assembly this week, with Milei demanding negotiations with the UK to resolve what Argentina considers an unfinished territorial dispute, whilst Burnham stated Britain would stand firm against any challenges to the rule of law affecting British territories.