British ministers have hit back at Argentine President Javier Miel, who said the "winds of change" in favor of Argentina's claim to the Falkland Islands were blowing around the world. Miel reiterated that his country must reclaim the islands, which Argentina calls the Malvinas.

British Foreign Secretary Ed Miliband said the UK's position was unwavering and that the Falklands were British and would remain so, as this was the overwhelming will of their people. He stressed that Britain would resolutely defend the islands' right to self-determination.

Defence Secretary Wes Streeting also said the Falklands are British because their people choose to be British. He said London's commitment to the islands was "absolute and unwavering", while Education Secretary Lucy Powell supported the same position, theguardian writes.

The new diplomatic clash comes after US President Donald Trump raised questions about the US position on British sovereignty over the islands. Trump said he is constantly reviewing his position and did not rule out changing US policy.

Britain and Argentina fought a war over the Falklands in 1982, after Argentine forces occupied the islands. British forces retook them after a conflict that lasted about two months. Today, the islanders strongly support continued ties with the United Kingdom.

Milei also warned foreign companies developing oil projects in the Falklands that they could face consequences if they continue the activity without Argentina's approval.

Following his statements, shares in the British company Rockhopper, involved in the development of the Sea Lion oil field, fell about 7 percent in early trading on Friday. /Telegraph/

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