Argentina Moves to Withdraw from WHO After US Exit

Argentina has announced plans to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), following U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent executive order to pull the United States out of the global health body.

Trump, whom Argentina’s libertarian President Javier Milei considers a close ally, initiated the U.S. withdrawal on his first day back in office on January 20. He cited the WHO’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and other international health crises, as well as what he described as unfair financial burdens placed on the U.S., its largest funder.

Milei reportedly ordered Argentina’s exit over concerns about the WHO’s management of health policies.

Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni stated that Argentina will not allow international organizations to interfere with its sovereignty, particularly in health matters.

He also criticized the WHO’s pandemic guidelines, claiming they led to the “largest shutdown in the history of mankind.”

Critics warn that leaving the WHO could restrict Argentina’s access to vital funding and medical resources. They also argue that such a move requires congressional approval, meaning it could face legal challenges.

The withdrawal process is expected to take a year from the official notification date, during which Argentina will continue meeting its financial commitments to the WHO.