STORY OF RUSSIAN ARMS SALES OVERBLOWN

C O N F I D E N T I A L BUENOS AIRES 001791 SIPDIS SIPDIS E.O. 12958: DECL: 08/09/2016 TAGS: PARM MARR MASS PREL VZ RS AR SUBJECT: STORY OF RUSSIAN ARMS SALES OVERBLOWN Classified By: Charge d'affaires Michael Matera for reasons 1.4(b) and (d) ¶1. (C) On August 9, The Washington Times ran a story regarding potential Russian arms sales to Argentina (local daily "La Nacion" ran the story last week). The source for the WT story, from which the article quotes liberally, is a standard MOD press release following Minister Garre's meetings with foreign dignitaries, in this case the Russian Ambassador to Argentina Yuri Korchagin. The WT article - based on the MOD's press release - reports the meeting accurately, but then adds the spice by noting the meeting (and offer of arms) comes on the tail of Venezuela's recent arm's deal with Russia, insinuating a possible link. PolOff spoke on August 9 with MOD Director General for Policy Dr. Leonardo Hekimian, a good contact for the Embassy. Hekimian stated there was no "deal" nor serious negotiations. As the WT article noted, the Minister told Korchagin that Argentina was not in the market for major arms purchases for a variety of reasons, including budgetary. Hekimian characterized Korchagin's overture in the nature of an ambassador drumming up business for his country's industries. Hekimian noted that the MOD had recently received similar offers for arms deals from the Ukrainians and Pakistanis, all politely refused. ¶2. (C) Comment: There is little likelihood Argentina will be making any significant arms purchases in the near term. Budgetary constraints, relatively good relations with neighboring countries, and an ongoing, major review of the Armed Forces' mission and role in Argentina preclude such considerations. MATERA