Violent protests in Argentina ensued as retirees clashed with police over pension cuts, involving over 100 arrests and at least 15 injuries. The protests escalated when football fans joined, expressing solidarity against the government’s austerity policies. Authorities deployed harsh measures, including tear gas and rubber bullets, which drew public outrage, especially after numerous incidents of police brutality against elderly demonstrators were recorded.
On Wednesday, violent protests erupted in Argentina’s capital, resulting in injuries to at least 15 individuals and over 100 arrests. The initial demonstration, organized by retirees opposing pension cuts, intensified when football fans from various clubs joined in solidarity against the government’s austerity measures. Authorities responded with riot police deploying tear gas, rubber bullets, and water cannons to disperse the gathering near the National Congress.
The clashes escalated, leading to serious injuries among both protesters and police. Notably, a police officer was shot, and a protester suffered a severe head wound caused by a tear gas canister. Additionally, photojournalist Pablo Grillo was injured by a projectile while covering the unrest, with his father attributing the violence to government overreach. Viral videos circulated demonstrating police brutality towards elderly protesters, further igniting public fury.
Retirees have been actively demonstrating against pension cuts that severely impact their livelihoods. These cuts are part of President Javier Milei’s broader austerity measures aimed at addressing Argentina’s economic crisis, which include subsidy reductions and pension freezes. Nearly 60% of retirees depend on the minimum pension of around $340 per month, catalyzing widespread dissatisfaction.
Tensions heightened when the Ministry of Security implemented a ban preventing individuals involved in public disorder from attending football matches, inciting backlash from football fans who viewed this as a violation of their rights. The protests transformed into a scene of chaos, with riot police attempting to clear streets filled with barricades and demonstrators setting fire to garbage and police vehicles, shouting slogans linking Milei to Argentina’s former military dictatorship.
Security Minister Patricia Bullrich defended law enforcement’s actions, insisting they were adhering to protocol to control the situation. However, human rights organizations and opposition figures criticized the government’s response as excessively repressive. The ongoing economic difficulties continue to fuel unrest, raising concerns about potential escalation in the coming weeks.
The protests in Argentina signify a growing dissatisfaction with the government’s austerity measures, particularly among retirees affected by pension cuts. The violent clashes illustrate the deep societal rift and public anger toward President Milei’s administration, as economic hardships worsen. As the situation develops, there is a high potential for increased unrest, reflecting the urgency of addressing the underlying economic challenges faced by the populace.
Original Source: www.newsx.com
