In a move indicative of escalating diplomatic tensions, Spain's King Felipe VI has reportedly refused to grant an audience to Argentine President Javier Milei during his visit to Madrid on Friday. The snub comes after Milei's repeated attacks on Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez and his wife, sparking a heated exchange between the two countries.

President Milei had requested a meeting with King Felipe VI, who is currently celebrating his 10-year reign, but the Argentine leader's name did not make it onto the royal household's agenda, according to Spanish media reports. The strained relationship between Milei and the Spanish Prime Minister worsened when the Argentine president referred to Sánchez's wife as "corrupt" during a far-right rally in Madrid last month. Milei further labeled Sánchez as "the laughingstock of Europe in diplomatic matters."

The Spanish government reacted strongly by recalling its ambassador to Buenos Aires and demanding a public apology from the Argentinian president. Spain's foreign minister even threatened to sever diplomatic ties with Argentina if no apology was made. However, Milei remained unapologetic, leading to further strained relations between the two nations.

A spokesperson for the Spanish palace informed El País, a Spanish newspaper, that visits from foreign leaders are coordinated with the Foreign Ministry, and the ministry itself declined to comment on the agenda of foreign leaders.

Spain's Defense Minister Margarita Robles expressed her support for the king's decision, stating that it is only logical for the king to refuse a meeting with Milei, given the way Milei has disrespected the Spanish Prime Minister. Robles emphasized that the prime minister represents all Spaniards, regardless of their political affiliation or voting preferences.

Interestingly, King Felipe VI and President Milei have had prior interactions. The Spanish head of state attended Milei's inauguration, and both were present at the recent investiture of Salvadoran President Nayib Bukele.

President Milei's visit to Madrid is in connection with his acceptance of an award from a libertarian thinktank.

As tensions persist between Spain and Argentina, analysts speculate on the future course of their diplomatic relations. Only time will tell if these strained ties can be mended or if they will further deteriorate.