General Strike Paralyzes Transportation in Argentina Amidst Austerity Measures

Transportation services halted, highlighting public unrest over President Milei's austerity measures aimed at combating hyperinflation.

A national general strike in Argentina has disrupted transportation services deeply, stemming from widespread opposition to recent public spending cuts instituted by the government. The strike has led to the cancellation of all domestic flights, while trains and metro services have been suspended throughout Buenos Aires and other regions, leaving many commuters stranded and frustrated. Although the capital saw many shops close their doors, bus drivers remained operational, albeit under conflicting circumstances. Airlines reported that international flights would proceed as scheduled, with some experiencing delays due to the tumultuous situation on the ground.

This marked the third strike organized by Argentina's powerful labor unions since President Javier Milei assumed office late in 2023. The national airline, Aerolíneas Argentinas, announced the cancellation of 258 flights, affecting approximately 20,000 travelers. President Milei has implemented stringent austerity measures in an attempt to tackle the nation’s hyperinflation issues, which have seen inflation rates plummet from over 200% to around 60% annually. However, unions claim that these measures disproportionately affect the country's most vulnerable populations, including pensioners and low-wage workers.

Retired teacher Horacio Bianchi voiced concerns about the impact of these cuts on society as a whole, lamenting that many people struggle to afford basic necessities, saying, “These people [the government] came to solve the problems and they have absolutely worsened them for everyone.” Protests erupted recently as workers rallied alongside pensioners suffering from reduced benefits, culminating in clashes with police over the past weeks.

The strike gained momentum following a peaceful march held the previous day in solidarity with affected pensioners. The situation is further complicated as the government awaits a decision on a new $20 billion loan request from the International Monetary Fund (IMF), an organization that Argentina already owes $44 billion. U.S. Treasury officials have praised Milei's efforts, asserting that he has helped lift Argentina from severe economic downturn. In a demonstration of ongoing support for the reforms, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent is scheduled to visit Buenos Aires on Monday.