Violent Protests Erupt in Argentina as Senators Approve President Milei’s Austerity Measures

Buenos Aires, Argentina – Widespread protests and violent clashes have erupted across Argentina after the Senate approved a series of severe austerity measures proposed by President Javier Milei. The medidas de ajuste, as they are known, aim to reduce government spending and address the country’s growing economic crisis. The protests began on Tuesday, shortly after the Senate voted 52-48 in favor of the measures. Demonstrators took to the streets of major cities, including Buenos Aires, Cordoba, and Rosario, carrying signs and chanting slogans against Milei and his government. As the protests escalated, some demonstrators turned violent. They clashed with riot police, threw stones and Molotov cocktails, and set fire to buildings and vehicles. In Buenos Aires, protesters attacked the headquarters of the ruling Libertad Avanza party, causing significant damage. The police responded with force, using tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse the crowds. Several protesters were injured, and at least 50 were arrested. The austerity measures approved by the Senate include deep cuts to government spending, including on social programs and education. They also increase taxes and raise the retirement age. The measures have been met with widespread criticism from labor unions, social organizations, and opposition parties. Critics argue that the measures will disproportionately impact the most vulnerable members of society and will further deepen Argentina’s economic crisis. They also question the need for such severe austerity, given that the country has recently secured a multi-billion-dollar loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF). President Milei has defended the measures as necessary to reduce government debt and restore economic stability. He has called for calm and urged protesters to express their dissent peacefully. The violent protests are a sign of the deep social and economic divisions in Argentina. The country has been struggling with high inflation, poverty, and a lack of job opportunities for years. Milei’s austerity measures have further fueled these tensions and raised concerns about the future of the country.Police Clash with Protesters as Argentina Approves Austerity Measures

Police Clash with Protesters as Argentina Approves Austerity Measures

In Buenos Aires, violence erupted as protesters confronted police with sticks, stones, and Molotov cocktails during demonstrations against the government’s proposed austerity measures.

Austerity Bills Pass in Senate

Amidst the chaos, the Argentine Senate narrowly approved the first set of harsh austerity measures proposed by President Javier Milei. The legislation includes cuts to income tax thresholds and a broad delegation of legislative powers to the president.

Violent Protests and Police Response

Thousands of protesters gathered outside Congress, chanting slogans and calling for the rejection of Milei’s plan. Police responded with water cannon, tear gas, and pepper spray, resulting in injuries to demonstrators and officers. Several opposition lawmakers claimed to be hospitalized after being sprayed by police.

Political and Economic Implications

The passage of the bills marks a partial victory for Milei, who has faced resistance in Congress due to his limited political base. The measures are aimed at addressing Argentina’s economic crisis, which includes high inflation and a deep recession.

International Attention

Foreign investors and the International Monetary Fund are closely monitoring the situation to assess Milei’s ability to fulfill his ambitious agenda and meet Argentina’s international debt obligations.

Opposition and Government Rhetoric

The Peronist opposition, loyal to former President Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, condemned the measures as an attack on labor and pension rights. Meanwhile, the government characterized the protesters as “terrorists” and accused them of attempting a coup.

Future Outlook

The full approval of the austerity measures remains uncertain as they must still undergo further scrutiny and votes in Congress. The outcome of this process will determine the fate of Milei’s presidency and the future of Argentina’s economy.Violent protests erupted in Argentina as senators voted in favor of President Javier Milei’s austerity measures. Thousands of demonstrators clashed with police in the capital, Buenos Aires, and other major cities. They set fire to tires, blocked roads, and vandalized property. The protests came after the Senate approved a bill that cuts government spending by 10%, raises taxes, and freezes wages. The measures are aimed at reducing the country’s budget deficit, which has reached 10% of GDP. Critics of the austerity measures say they will hurt the poor and middle class, while doing little to address the root causes of Argentina’s economic problems. President Milei has defended the measures, saying they are necessary to stabilize the economy and attract foreign investment. The violence is the latest sign of the deep political and economic divisions in Argentina. The country has been plagued by high inflation, currency instability, and poverty for decades. The protests are likely to continue as the government implements the austerity measures.