Argentina's Milei Austerity Plan Sparks Protests and Threats of Welfare Cuts

Thousands of people in Buenos Aires protested against Argentina's new libertarian president, Javier Milei, and his economic shock measures, marking the first major challenge for his administration. Milei, who took office earlier this month, has announced plans to slash public spending, devalue the peso currency, cut subsidies, and close government ministries. The protesters, led by groups representing the unemployed, gathered in Plaza de Mayo to demand greater financial support for the poor. The government has implemented a protocol to maintain public order, allowing federal forces to block disruptive road-blocking protests, which has drawn criticism from social organizations.