Argentina plans to file a criminal complaint against five oil companies over hydrocarbon activities in the North Malvinas Basin, President Javier Milei's office said Monday.
Foreign Minister Pablo Quirno and Treasury Attorney General Sebastian Amerio will file the complaint, the president's office said.
The complaint targets Navitas Petroleum Development & Production, Navitas Petroleum Atlantic United, Navitas Petroleum, JHI Associates and Eco (Atlantic) Oil & Gas.
The government alleged three companies hold UK licenses to explore or develop hydrocarbons in the North Malvinas Basin, in violation of Argentine law.
Argentina also plans to pursue directors, managers, trustees, board members, administrators, agents, representatives and others who may have participated in the alleged offenses, the office said.
The government said the legal action seeks to protect Argentina's natural resources and sovereignty over the Malvinas Islands, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands.
The presidential office said Argentina will continue investigating and pursuing legal action to prevent third parties from developing its natural resources.
Separately, President Javier Milei directed Economy Minister Luis Andres Caputo to prioritize an integrated naval base and other strategic projects in the 2027 budget proposal due to Congress on Sept. 15.
The measures form part of a broader government policy to strengthen Argentina's ability to defend its territory, protect natural resources and secure strategic interests, the president's office said.