A 24-hour general strike protesting sweeping public spending cuts by Argentine President Javier Milei has brought transportation services to a halt across the country.
In Buenos Aires, the capital’s major transport systems—including trains and metro lines—were completely shut down, and all domestic flights were cancelled. Long-distance and regional train services were also suspended. The national airline, Aerolíneas Argentinas, confirmed the cancellation of 258 flights, affecting roughly 20,000 passengers. International flights proceeded with limited delays.
While many businesses and shops in the capital closed their doors in solidarity, bus services continued operating. The Constitución train station, one of the busiest in the country, was eerily empty.
This marks the third general strike organized by Argentina’s powerful labor unions since President Milei took office in late 2023. His administration’s austerity measures—designed to tackle hyperinflation—have reduced inflation from over 200% to approximately 60% annually. However, union leaders argue the reforms have disproportionately impacted vulnerable populations, including pensioners and low-income workers.
Since assuming power, Milei has eliminated subsidies for transport, energy, and fuel, laid off tens of thousands of public sector employees, and shut down multiple government agencies.
“These people [the government] came to solve the problems and they have absolutely worsened them for everyone,”
—Horacio Bianchi, a retired teacher in Buenos Aires (via AP)
The strike followed a peaceful protest march by pensioners and social groups on Wednesday. Recent demonstrations have occasionally ended in violence, with football fans and other groups clashing with police.
The industrial action comes as the Argentine government awaits approval of a new $20 billion loan from the International Monetary Fund (IMF)—despite already owing $44 billion to the lender. The U.S. Treasury Department praised Milei’s efforts, with Secretary Scott Bessent expected to visit Buenos Aires on Monday to show support for the reforms.
