Admiral Alvin Holsey, commander of the US Southern Command (SOUTHCOM), met Milei and Defense Minister Luis Petri, who said his presence underscored "the strategic importance" the Trump administration accords South America's second-biggest economy.

Self-declared "anarcho-capitalist" Milei, in office since December 2023, claims political and ideological proximity to Republican Donald Trump, whose administration he perceives as a "natural" and "strategic" ally.

A US embassy statement said Holsey's discussions would "revolve around reinforcing the longstanding military collaboration between our nations, aimed at bolstering regional security, and advancing shared interests."

The administration of Trump's predecessor, Joe Biden, announced $40 million in aid a year ago "to support Argentina's defense modernization."

It was the first US foreign military financing to Buenos Aires since 2003.

Holsey was to visit the Argentine naval base in Ushuaia, in the south, "where he will engage with local military personnel to gain insights into their missions and the critical role they play in safeguarding maritime routes vital to global commerce," according to the embassy.

Petri wrote on X that Argentina was "going through a stage of great harmony and understanding with the United States, with a common agenda that includes security, economy, defense, and the fight against terrorism."