Argentina to withdraw from WHO after Trump exit, citing 'deep differences'

Argentina will withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), a presidential spokesperson said Wednesday, aligning with U.S. President Donald Trump's decision to leave the global health body.

President Javier Milei, a libertarian leader and Trump ally, ordered the exit due to "deep differences" with the WHO's management of health crises, particularly its handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni said.

Milei's government argued that the WHO lacked independence and was influenced by political interests, echoing Trump’s long-standing criticism of the organization.

Adorni pointed to Argentina’s prolonged pandemic lockdowns under the previous leftist government as a key factor in the decision, arguing that the WHO’s policies led to "damaging health and economic consequences."

Trump’s influence

Trump, who moved to pull the U.S. out of the WHO on his first day back in office on January 20, has repeatedly accused the organization of mishandling the pandemic and placing unfair financial burdens on the United States.

Milei, who has embraced pro-Trump policies, has been vocal about aligning Argentina with the U.S. on international matters, including trade and diplomatic stances.

It remains unclear when Argentina’s exit from the WHO will be finalized, and whether other nations may follow suit amid growing criticism of the organization.