Buenos Aires, Argentina – Violent protests have broken out in Buenos Aires as Argentina’s Senate debates a crucial bill supporting President Javier Milei’s economic overhaul. Thousands of demonstrators gathered near the country’s iconic domed Congress building on Wednesday to protest against proposed austerity measures within the comprehensive bill.
The day began with peaceful street barbecues, picketing, and protest songs. However, tensions escalated in the afternoon as the debate intensified inside the congressional chambers. Riot police, equipped with helmets, batons, and clear plastic shields, were deployed to disperse the crowds. They used tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons against protesters braving the winter cold.
Local media reported several opposition lawmakers among the injured, including Juan Manuel Pedrini, who was hospitalized for burns to his eyes and skin. The Union for the Homeland, a Peronist political party, condemned the police’s actions, calling it “a sad day for Argentinian democracy” and expressing “absolute repudiation of the repression perpetrated by the police” on social media.
In contrast, Milei’s government highlighted the violent tactics allegedly used by some protesters as the day progressed. Officials reported the detention of 18 individuals following incidents of rock-throwing and stick-wielding. A car belonging to the radio station Cadena 3 was also set ablaze. Waldo Wolff, Buenos Aires’ minister of justice and security, stated that one person was found “with a grenade.”
“The culture of violence that sets the pace for demonstrations is at an end,” Wolff declared on the social media platform X.
Stay updated on the unfolding situation in Buenos Aires as the Senate continues its debate on President Milei’s economic overhaul bill.
