Argentina has announced its decision to withdraw from the World Health Organization (WHO), citing concerns over national sovereignty and the global health body's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic. Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni confirmed the decision during a news conference, as reported by CNN.

"President Javier Milei has instructed Foreign Minister Gerardo Werthein to initiate the withdrawal of Argentina from the World Health Organization," Adorni stated.

He emphasized that Argentina would not allow an international organization to interfere with its sovereignty, particularly in matters of public health.

Adorni attributed the decision to "profound differences in health management, particularly during the pandemic, which led to the longest lockdown in human history and compromised national autonomy due to political influence from certain states."

This announcement comes just weeks after U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order to withdraw the United States from the WHO. Trump, considered an ideological ally of Milei, criticized the WHO for its handling of the pandemic and its alleged failure to act independently of political pressures.

In a subsequent statement, Argentina’s presidential office accused the WHO of inflicting economic harm during the COVID-19 crisis by "promoting endless quarantines." The statement further questioned the role of supranational organizations, asserting that such bodies are funded by member states yet fail to fulfill their intended objectives while engaging in global political influence.

Although the WHO operates in Argentina, Adorni clarified that the country does not receive financial assistance from the organization for health management. "Therefore, this decision does not represent a financial loss for Argentina, nor will it impact the quality of healthcare services," he said.

He further argued that withdrawing from the WHO would provide Argentina with "greater flexibility in implementing health policies tailored to national interests" and "enhanced availability of resources." The decision, he asserted, reaffirms Argentina’s commitment to health sovereignty.

The WHO has expressed regret over the United States’ decision to withdraw and reiterated its role in ensuring global health security. The organization has urged both Argentina and the U.S. to reconsider their decisions and engage in constructive dialogue to maintain cooperation in global health initiatives.

As Argentina moves forward with its exit process, analysts warn that the decision could impact the country’s access to international health resources and collaboration efforts. Opposition leaders have also raised concerns about the potential legal and economic consequences of the withdrawal.