Argentine Labor Unions Stage General Strike Against Government

Labor unions in Argentina went on a 24-hour general strike Thursday to protest President Javier Milei's economic policies.

Bus, train, metro, air travel, education and banking sector unions joined the strike, which was initiated by the General Labor Confederation (CGT).

Due to the strike, streets and avenues in many cities, especially the capital Buenos Aires, fell silent.

CGT Secretary-General Hector Daer emphasized in a statement that the strike serves as a strong warning to the government.

"The government needs to take this into account. It should review its austerity policies and avoid further hardships for citizens," he said.

Milei, in a statement on his social media account, stressed the necessity of austerity policies and structural economic reforms for Argentina, indicating his opposition to the general strike.

Argentine's Economy Minister Luis Caputo criticized the unions participating in the general strike on X.

"People have opened their eyes, realizing that overcoming this disaster requires effort and sacrifice. Unions are increasingly detached from the realities of life," he said.

In the wake of inflation soaring to 288% in Argentina, thousands of people from various sectors of the economy frequently take to the streets demanding wage increases. -