US President Donald Trump has suggested he is reconsidering Washington's position on Britain's sovereignty over the Falkland Islands, a move that could further strain relations between the United States and the United Kingdom.
Asked at the White House whether he was reviewing the US position on the South Atlantic islands, Trump said: "I always review every position - that's just one of many." The Falklands have long been claimed by Argentina, although Britain has administered them for most of the period since 1833.
The United States officially maintains a neutral position on the question of sovereignty. In practice, however, Washington recognizes British administration of the islands, which Argentina invaded in 1982, triggering a war that ended with British forces regaining control.
The British government declined to comment on Trump's remarks.
The comments have raised concerns that Washington could use the Falklands dispute to pressure the government of British Prime Minister Andy Burnham to increase defense spending and its contribution to NATO.
